EST-Floattech Octopus battery system for SFK’s electric ferry Laboe

Dutch energy storage systems provider EST-Floattech has announced the delivery and commissioning of the Octopus Series battery system on the SFK Ferry Laboe.

The ferry was recently delivered to German ferry operator Schlepp- und Fährgesellschaft Kiel (SFK) by Holland Shipyards Group. It is the sixth ferry in a series of seven with which SFK has the ambition to lower its CO2 emissions.

The Laboe is equipped with 560 kWh of the Octopus High Energy system. This battery system ensures that the energy consumption remains low during the sailing, as the vessel can easily switch between generators and the battery system.

The vessel can even sail fully emission-free around the city of Kiel, where it transports commuting pedestrians and cyclists from A to B.

The system was integrated by Holland Ship Electric, which collaborated with EST-Floattech on the ferries for SFK.

Reducing emissions with the Octopus Series

The city of Kiel in Germany is working hard to create an emission-free future. This collaboration reflects a shared vision for a cleaner, more efficient maritime industry, aligning with global efforts to reduce carbon emissions thanks to the Octopus Series battery system.

The integrated energy management system optimizes the use of stored energy, enabling the ferry to operate more efficiently and reduce fuel consumption, leading to lower emissions and operational costs. This system has batteries with high energy density, ensuring optimal performance and long operational life for the SFK ferry Laboe.

“When the new Octopus High Energy System was presented to us for the first time, we were impressed by the overhauled design and HMI features of the system. Simple integration into the ships networks and better connectivity to the PMS, moreover the new system comes with a higher safety standard. The performance of the system is more than satisfactory. The SFK is also informed that the system is capable to handle different kind of batteries types so it future proof,” Malte Klein from Schlepp- und Fährgesellschaft Kiel said.

“The new Octopus High Energy EST battery system has been successfully integrated into both the hybrid ferry Laboe and the fully battery-powered ferry Dietrichsdorf. The inclusion of state-of-the-art battery racks and covers enhances the overall professional aesthetics of the system. Throughout the construction process, EST-Floattech maintained an open dialogue for feedback and suggestions from the shipyard and installer, resulting in a seamless integration of the battery pack into both vessels,” Rens Gerritsen, Project Manager from Holland Shipyards Group, commented.

“We are proud to be part of this transformative project that supports the goals of different parties involved in this project to create a more sustainable maritime industry and help lower the emissions in and around Kiel thanks to the Octopus Series battery system,” Walter van der Pennen, Commercial Director at EST-Floattech, pointed out.