ABB and Seafjord Energy introduce pioneering e-bunker vessel concept

• The innovative e-bunker vessel concept by SeaFjord Energy offers a new way of supplying energy to ships at sea and in ports
• ABB’s advanced electric power and propulsion system, combined with an innovative charging solution, addresses one of the maritime industry’s most pressing challenges: reducing carbon emissions
• The vessel concept features ABB Dynafin™ propulsion and Onboard DC Grid™ power system platform for maximum operational efficiency – crucial for optimizing energy use on board

ABB’s power and propulsion solution was chosen by SeaFjord Energy, a Swedish innovator in marine energy solutions, for a pioneering e-bunker vessel concept that 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, a French company specialized in testing, inspection and certification, 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.

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

The vessel design benefits from two ABB Dynafin™ propulsion units to maximize propulsion efficiency and responsiveness in all operational situations. Maximum propulsion efficiency is crucial for a concept of this kind as it minimizes the energy required to power the vessel, thereby making more energy available for charging other ships. ABB 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 ABB’s Onboard DC Grid™ power system platform, enhancing the vessel’s overall performance.

The Onboard DC Grid™ is a modular and highly customizable 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.

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 optimizes energy use and flow onboard, as well as towards the vessels bunkering from it.

“ABB is excited to collaborate on this groundbreaking design. Our electric power and propulsion system enables maximal efficiency both for transmission and propulsion, which means that a larger part of the carried energy can be used by bunker customers,” said Marcus Högblom, Head of Passenger segment, ABB Marine & Ports.

“This is the world’s first e-bunker vessel which will provide electric power to ships in fjords, ports and offshore. This development is a significant step towards a more sustainable maritime sector,” said Elias Magnusson, COO, SeaFjord Energy.

“We are pleased to support the development of this innovative e-bunker vessel, advancing sustainable maritime solutions while maintaining high safety and environmental standards,” said Herman Spilker, Vice President of North Europe Zone at Bureau Veritas Marine & Offshore.

“FKAB is glad and grateful to be part of this e-bunker design, and that we got the question from Seafjord Energy to take part from day one to develop their idea together. This project is the first-of-its-kind and perfectly in line with innovative projects that FKAB likes to take part in,” said Andreas Hagberg, Head of Sales and Marketing at FKAB Marine Design.

ABB’s Process Automation business automates, electrifies and digitalizes industrial operations that address a wide range of essential needs – from supplying energy, water and materials, to producing goods and transporting them to market. With its ~20,000 employees, leading technology and service expertise, ABB Process Automation helps customers in process, hybrid and maritime industries improve performance and safety of operations, enabling a more sustainable and resource-efficient future. go.abb/processautomation

ABB is a technology leader in electrification and automation, enabling a more sustainable and resource-efficient future. The company’s solutions connect engineering know-how and software to optimize how things are manufactured, moved, powered and operated. Building on over 140 years of excellence, ABB’s more than 105,000 employees are committed to driving innovations that accelerate industrial transformation. www.abb.com