Hurtigruten Going Hybrid

Norwegian expedition cruise operator Hurtigruten has signed a Letter of Intent with Rolls-Royce for a major environmental upgrade program to hybrid power.

The plan is to convert the main engines on up to nine cruise ships from diesel to gas power and equip the ships with a hybrid battery system.

The deal comprises the supply of equipment to six existing passenger cruise vessels, with an option for a further three. The upgrade will enable the former diesel-powered ships to reduce CO₂-emissions by at least 25 percent, Rolls-Royce said.

“This is an investment for the future, and a historic day for us, for the environment and for the whole, long Norwegian coastline. The combination of battery packs with the most environmentally friendly and effective gas engines in the market will provide a huge gain for the environment,” Daniel Skjeldam, CEO of Hurtigruten, said.

Under the terms of the deal, Rolls-Royce is to deliver two of its Bergen B36:45 L&PG gas engines as the main engines to each ship. The company will also supply the latest electrical power SAVe Cube system, and additional battery power, making the ships hybrid-powered. The propulsion system is planned to also include the Promas system, which combines rudder and propeller into one fuel efficient unit.

Hurtigruten was recently awarded licenses by the Norwegian Government for seven out of 11 coastal ferry routes. One of the key requirements of the government in the awarding process was a reduction in CO₂-emissions.

The new tender period for the coastal route starts on January 1, 2021.