Germany Welcomes Its First Fully Electric Seagoing Ferry

WPB: Germany’s inaugural all-electric seagoing vessel, a catamaran ferry named E-Kat, has successfully completed its acceptance trials and is now ready for service. This milestone highlights the growing potential of battery-powered vessels in maritime transport.

The E-Kat, designed and constructed by Damen Group, was launched on June 29 in Gorinchem, Netherlands. Initial test runs were planned for summer 2024, but the process faced minor delays. On January 15, AG Reederei Norden-Frisia, the ferry’s operator, confirmed the successful completion of trials, alongside obtaining permits, insurance, and official approvals necessary for its operation.

The ferry’s battery system, with a maximum capacity of 1,800 kW, has also undergone comprehensive testing, including full-power charging trials. The charging infrastructure at the Norddeich pier has been largely installed, ensuring seamless energy replenishment.

“All formalities are complete,” stated Michael Garrelts, technical inspector at AG Reederei Norden-Frisia. “If weather conditions permit, the E-Kat will reach Norddeich within January.”

Constructed from aluminum, the vessel measures approximately 106 feet (32.3 meters) in length and can accommodate up to 150 passengers. It has a payload capacity of 11,250 kg.

The ferry will connect Norddeich, located on Germany’s North Sea coast, with Norderney, one of the East Frisian Islands. Operating at a cruising speed of 16 knots (and capable of reaching 19 knots), the journey time will be cut nearly in half to just 30 minutes. The ferry is expected to make up to eight round trips per day.

E-Kat is powered by twin electric motors, each producing 600 kW, and supported by two 75 kW electric bow thrusters. The Dutch company EST-Floattech provided the Octopus High Energy battery system that powers the ferry. Once docked, the vessel will recharge using shore power connections, with a full charge requiring just 28 minutes. This charge will suffice for a round trip across the 11-kilometer (7-mile) stretch between the port and the island.

According to Cal-Ulfert Stegmann, a member of the shipping company’s board, the long-term objective is to achieve a closed-loop energy system. The company has already installed solar panels at its facilities in Norddeich and Norderney, and it is working to expand its charging infrastructure for electric vehicles at both locations.

E-Kat’s deployment marks a significant step toward sustainable maritime transport, paving the way for greener innovations in Germany’s shipping industry.

By WPB

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