Hybrid RoPax will deliver 50% cut in CO2 emissions
Written by Nick Blenkey
Kvarken Link Ferry (Image courtesy RMC)
The new Wasaline RoPax ferry under construction by Finnish shipbuilder Rauma Marine Constructions (see earlier story) will have a hybrid propulsion solution combining dual fuel (LNG/biogas and diesel/SCR) machinery and batteries, connected to azimuth thrusters/pods.
The propulsion solution will incorporate four highly efficient Wärtsilä 31DF dual-fuel engines capable of operating on liquefied natural gas (LNG) and biogas. Wärtsilä will also supply the LNG storage, supply and control systems, as well as the thrusters, catalysators, controls,along with the integrated electrical and automation systems which will incorporate an energy and power management system to optimize the use and operation of the hybrid power solution.
BIG CUT IN CO2 EMISSIONS
The combination of the Wärtsilä 31DF engines, hybrid propulsion, and LNG and BioLNG fuel will set a new benchmark in efficiency and sustainability. CO2 emissions, for example, will be reduced by more than 50 percent compared to Wasaline’s current ferry serving this route.
“Shipbuilding in Rauma has a history dating back some 600 years. During that time all kinds of vessels have been delivered, but never has there been a ship like this new Wasaline ferry,” says Jyrki Heinimaa, President and CEO, Rauma Marine Constructions. The efficiency level is very high, and the hybrid technology employed results in minimal exhaust emissions. We are proud to be able to say that we built this ship.”
“This ferry project represents the perfect alignment of a lifecycle Wärtsilä solution with the lowest possible environmental impact,”says Henrik Wilhelms, Segment Sales Director, Wärtsilä Marine, who noted that Wärtsilä had worked closely with NLC Ferry, which operates the Wasaline service, for more than five years in the development of the state-of-the-art vessel.
Wärtsilä’s equipment supply is augmented by a 10-year service agreement along with an agreement that allows Wärtsilä to utilize the vessel as an R&D test platform and technology demonstrator.
The new ship will accommodate 800 passengers and will have 1500 lane meters available for trucks and passenger vehicles.
Categories: Ferries, News, Technology
