Imtech gets CalMac ferry hybrid contract
Imtech will supply the hybrid power system for two new ferries for Scottish coastal waters
Imtech Marine has been awarded a contract to supply the hybrid propulsion system, based on a diesel electric plant in combination with battery technology, to the first diesel electric, hybrid seagoing ferries.
Owned by Scottish company Caledonian Maritime Assets Limited (CMAL), the two vehicle and passenger ro-ro ferries will be built by Ferguson Shipbuilders of Glasgow. The vessels will be powered by diesel generator sets, feeding power to a 400V switchboard, which will supply power to permanent magnet propulsion motors. Innovative green technology supplied by Imtech Marine includes two 700kWh lithium battery banks, which will help reduce fuel consumption and CO2 emissions by a claimed minimum of 20%.
In addition to that, the ship design and power system configuration are expected to yield additional power savings of some 19%-24% over a conventional diesel mechanical solution. When in port, the ships will completely switch off the propulsion and switch to batteries and ultimately shore connection, which will result in significant cost savings and further reduction of the carbon footprint. As well as the substantial reduction in fuel consumption and CO2 emissions, noise levels will be reduced. The batteries will re-charge overnight, with the future possibility of CMAL employing wind, wave or solar energy for charging the batteries, making the vessels even more environmentally friendly.
Imtech Marine’s Glasgow office will co-ordinate the supply and installation, handle the day-to-day project management and will offer after-sales support. The first vessel is expected to be delivered in the summer of 2013 and the second a month later. Imtech will provide training in operating the hybrid systems. Following a week of sea trials, the ferries will spend an additional 21 days being tested on all routes operated by CMAL.
The ferries will be operated by Clyde and Hebrides Ferry Services, CalMac Ferries, and will be designed for the short routes around the Clyde and Hebridean Islands. With a service speed of 9 knots, the hybrid ferries will be able to accommodate 150 passengers, 23 cars or two HGVs.
Eric van den Adel, managing director of Imtech Marine said: “We are very happy to be involved in this pioneering, innovative project to realise the world's first seagoing hybrid ferries, important and unique in Scotland’s maritime history. We are proud that CMAL has placed its trust in us to switch from operating traditional diesel engines to the most advanced propulsion technology available. Imtech Marine has built up a vast knowledge and experience with diesel electric propulsion and environmentally friendly solutions. Over the years Imtech Marine has focused on developing power systems that deliver more energy, offer better fuel efficiency and result in more sustainable solutions. This type of green ship entirely fits in our strategic focus on green ship concepts; solutions which also offer a better return on investment and improved performance. The result is a cleaner ship, but also a more cost- and energy efficient operation.”
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