Scandlines selects Leclanché power for zero-emissions ferry

Scandlines PR24 ferry Photo: Scandlines

Danish ferry operator Scandlines has selected a 10 MWh battery storage system from Swiss power storage specialist Leclanché for its zero-emissions ferry project.

Announced in 2021, the roll-on, roll-off ferry is expected to enter service in 2024. It will operate on a route between the German island of Fehmarn with Lolland in Denmark, a distance of 18.5 km.

Leclanché specialises in delivering li-ion battery systems for marine applications. Designed by LMG Marin in Norway, the ship will be constructed at Cemre Shipyard in Turkey.

The MRS battery electric storage system (BESS) is modular and scalable. The system uses a liquid cooling system which is said to offer improved safety, faster charging times, a longer operational lifetime, smaller footprint and lower energy consumption than air-cooled systems.

The G/NMC battery system will have a capacity of 10,028 kWh, with a maximum voltage of 864 volts. The BESS has a redundant architecture with 48 battery strings across eight switchboards. Delivery will begin in January 2023.

“Our team was highly impressed with Leclanché’s technology and real-life maritime industry experience,” said Christian Thiemer, technical superintendent, Scandlines. “Some of the critical factors impacting our selection included Leclanché’s liquid-cooled battery architecture and well as the energy density of its cells. Together, in collaboration with our PR24 team of experienced providers, we are confident that our freight ferry will set the standard for powerful, sustainable and safe marine technology.”

The Scandlines zero-emissions ferry will have a length of 147.4 metres, a beam of 25.4 metres and a draft of 5.3 metres. It will be capable of carrying 66 freight units carrying a maximum of 140 passengers. At a service speed of 10 knots, the crossing is expected to take 45 minutes; in full electric mode it will take 70 minutes.