Norwegian expedition cruise operator Hurtigruten has signed a Letter of Intent with Rolls-Royce (RR) for a major environmental upgrade programme to hybrid power.
The main engines on up to nine cruise ships will switch from diesel to gas power and the upgrade will also include installation of a hybrid battery system.
LNG Engines and Battery Power
The deal comprises the supply of equipment to six existing passenger cruise vessels, with an option for a further three. The ships will completely change their power system with the installation of new RR LNG-engines as part of a new hybrid system. The upgrade will enable the former diesel-powered ships to reduce CO2-emissions by at least 25 per cent.
The intentional agreement specifies that RR is to deliver two of its Bergen B36:45L&PG gas engines as the main engines to each ship. These LNG engines will reduce emissions of NOx, CO2, SOx and particulates. RR will supply the latest electrical power SAVe Cube system, designed with a single integrated drive switchboard for the whole vessel.
Additional battery power will also be installed, making the ships hybrid powered and contributing to making them more environmentally-friendly. The propulsion system is planned to also include the Promas system, which combines rudder and propeller into one fuel efficient unit.
Stricter Environmental Demands
Hurtigruten was recently awarded licenses by the Norwegian Government for seven out of eleven coastal ferry routes. The year-round service, on the renowned passenger and cargo route from Bergen in the southwest to Kirkenes in the north, has 34 stops.
One of the key requirements from the Government of the route’s operator was a reduction in CO2-emissions. With its plans for a major upgrade, Hurtigruten will be able to continue operating its existing fleet on the route and at the same time meet these new stricter environmental demands.
The new tender period for the coastal route starts on 1 January 2021.
