How do you recharge an electric vessel operating in a remote location? Seafjord Energy believes it has the answer. The company has chosen ABB’s power and propulsion solution for an e-bunker vessel concept that offers a new way of supplying energy to ships in remote locations.

The vessel concept, developed in collaboration with FKAB Marine Design and Bureau Veritas, will feature a large battery pack capable of providing renewable energy where traditional shore power infrastructure is less accessible, such as in remote fjords and at offshore locations.

“This is the world’s first e-bunker vessel that will provide electric power to ships in fjords, ports and offshore. This development is a significant step towards a more sustainable maritime sector,” said Elias Magnusson, COO, SeaFjord Energy.

The e-bunker vessel can be charged through a shore connection or draw energy directly from a wind farm, utilizing ABB’s charging system. ABB’s technology is envisioned to be used for charging other vessels at sea, with the e-bunker designed to deliver up to 50 megawatts of power to ships of different sizes, from small to large.

“Our electric power and propulsion system enables maximal efficiency both for transmission and propulsion, which means that a larger part of the carried energy can be used by bunker customers,” said Marcus Högblom, head of passenger segment, ABB Marine & Ports.

The vessel design benefits from two ABB Dynafin propulsion units to maximize propulsion efficiency and responsiveness in all operational situations. The propulsors integrate seamlessly with ABB’s Onboard DC Grid power system platform, enhancing the vessel’s overall performance.

The Onboard DC Grid is a modular and highly customizable power system platform that enables simple, flexible, and functional integration of energy sources and loads. Its versatility is well suited to meet the e-bunker’s operational requirements.

“We are pleased to support the development of this innovative e-bunker vessel, advancing sustainable maritime solutions while maintaining high safety and environmental standards,” said Herman Spilker, vice president of North Europe Zone at Bureau Veritas Marine & Offshore.