Scandlines is now taking the next step on its green journey, converting two of the four passenger ferries operating the Puttgarden-Rødby route into plug-in ferries so that they can charge using green power in both Puttgarden and Rødby.
On average, the batteries of the ferries will be charged in just 12 minutes with at least 80% of the energy needed for a crossing. The Baltic operator has, as early as 2013, invested in hybrid ferries with battery banks while more recently it ordered new zero direct emissions freight ferry. Other moves to enhance Scandlines’ green credentials have included rotor sails and new centre propeller blade for the Rostock-Gedser ferries, new efficient low-noise thrusters for the Puttgarden-Rødby ferries and algae-repellent ebergy-saving silicone bottom paint. This latest move reflects its ambition to make the Puttgarden-Rødby route emission-free by 2030. With the objective of making the entire company emission-free by 2040, Scandlines is setting itself higher targets than the COP28 agreement, which aims for transition away from fossil fuels and zero emissions by 2050.
The conversion will entail:
- Large (10MWh) energy storage system on board both ferries
- Onboard charging facilities
- Solar panels on board both ferries.
The total investment in electrification of the Fehmarn ferries amounts to €31m. 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% 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 2024-2025 period. This will help Scandlines reduce its total direct CO2 emissions in 2030 by around 60% percent compared to 2008. The goal remains zero direct emissions for the entire company in 2040.
Scandlines CEO Carsten Nørland said: “We are now electrifying two of our Fehmarn Belt ferries and moving much closer to our goal of making the route emission-free in Scope 1 by 2030. This is what our customers want, and it will significantly strengthen our competitiveness. The combination of our unparalleled reliability, continued investment in our unique green profile as well as the tailored traffic machine and excellent retail offerings, forms a competitive foundation for our business, also ahead of the planned opening of the Fehmarn Belt fixed link.”
