Tag: Fehmarn Belt link | Ferry Shipping News

Scandlines has taken a significant step towards electrifying its Puttgarden-Rødby ferry route by signing a contract with Wärtsilä on April 25, 2024. Wärtsilä will supply the electrical systems that will allow electricity to cover about 80% of the energy needed for each crossing.

This project is part of Scandlines’ larger plan, announced in late 2023, to convert two of its four ferries on this route to plug-in hybrid models. The goal is to operate the route without direct emissions by 2030 and to achieve zero direct emissions by 2040.

After a competitive tender, Scandlines selected Wärtsilä due to its extensive experience with hybrid ship retrofits, having completed numerous projects since 2012. Wärtsilä will not only supply the systems but also supervise their installation and commissioning.

The ferry conversions, set to begin in the second half of 2025, will involve replacing a diesel generator with a 5 MWh energy storage system.

Photo Matthias Tasler/Scandlines

In recent years, Scandlines has cemented its position as a green frontrunner with a wide range of initiatives, including the new FUTURA ferry. Now the plan is to electrify two ferries on the Fehmarn Belt.

Scandlines is investing in the following:

• Large energy storage system on board both ferries
• Charging facilities on board
• Solar panels on board both ferries

The total investment in electrification of the Fehmarn ferries amounts to EUR 31 million. The German Ministry of Transport has awarded the project financial support as part of a funding programme covering sustainable modernisation of coastal vessels to reduce emissions, covering up to 40 percent of the conversion costs.

Scandlines expects to sign a contract on the conversion in early 2024. Subject to the final delivery time of equipment, the ferries will be converted in the beginning of 2024 till 2025.