SeaFjord Energy has chosen ABB’s power and propulsion solution for a pioneering e-bunker vessel concept. The vessel offers a new way of supplying energy to ships at sea, in fjords or in ports.

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 remote fjords and offshore locations.

‘This is the world’s first e-bunker vessel which will provide electric power to ships in fjords, ports and offshore,’ says Elias Magnusson, COO of SeaFjord Energy, a Swedish innovator in marine energy solutions. ‘This development is a significant step towards a more sustainable maritime sector.’

ABB and Seafjord Energy introduce pioneering e-bunker vessel concept (by FKAB Marine Design)
ABB and Seafjord Energy introduce pioneering e-bunker vessel concept (by FKAB Marine Design).

The e-bunker vessel can be charged through a shore connection or draw energy directly from a wind farm, utilising ABB’s charging system. This 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.

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Dynafin

The vessel design benefits from two ABB Dynafin propulsion units to maximise propulsion efficiency and responsiveness in all operational situations. Maximum propulsion efficiency is crucial for a concept of this kind as it minimises the energy required to power the vessel, thereby making more energy available for charging other ships.

Dynafin propulsion’s combined motion of the wheel and blades generates propulsion and steering forces simultaneously, enabling ground-breaking operational efficiency and precision for ships. Additionally, the propulsors integrate seamlessly with the company’s Onboard DC Grid power system platform, enhancing the vessel’s overall performance.

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DC Grid and PEMS

The Onboard DC Grid is a modular and highly customisable 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.

The Power and Energy Management System (PEMS) is the core of the vessel’s combined power and control system, ensuring optimal use of the vessel’s total power resources in a safe, energy-efficient and environmentally friendly manner. ABB’s solution optimises energy use and flow onboard, as well as towards the vessels bunkering from it.

Picture: ABB and Seafjord Energy introduce pioneering e-bunker vessel concept (by FKAB Marine Design).

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