Scandlines' Green upgrade: Transforming Hybrid Ferries into Plug-in Hybrids for a Greener Baltic Sea
Upgrades planned for two hybrid-powered ferries operated by Scandlines. - Hybrid Ferry Fleet Modernization by Scandlines: Two Vessels Now Equipped with Advanced Technologies
Here's the skinny: shipping company Scandlines is upgrading two of its ferries to plug-in hybrid ones, splashing out a cool €31 million to do so. These vessels are two out of the quartet that crisscross the Schleswig-Holstein port of Puttgarden and the Danish port of Rødbyhavn. The original hybrids got their makeover back in '13–'14.
Scandlines goes head-to-head with the upcoming Fehmarn Belt Tunnel, scheduled for a 2029 rollout, but the shipping company from Copenhagen is determined to keep the route humming post-tunnel completion. The ferries' advantage? Truck drivers can catch some Z's while voyaging, helping 'em comply with the driving and rest times.
The upgraded beauties will be sporting charging stations and facilities at both German and Danish terminals. These green babies should cut CO2 emissions by up to 80%, thanks to the clever combo of electric power and marine diesel oil or heavy oil. Scandlines is counting on the German Federal Ministry of Transport to front up to 40% of the conversion costs.
Reports suggest Scandlines' conversion aims to make the route nearly emission-free by 2030, adding to the environmental bling of the Baltic Sea region. Not to mention, this move could improve the passenger experience by cutting noise pollution and boosting air quality.
- Scandlines
- Fehmarn Belt Tunnel
- Shipping
- Shipping Company
- Ferry Connection
- Ship
- Schleswig-Holstein
- Hamburg
- Denmark
Fascinatingly, the switch to plug-in hybrids means less CO2, swankier eco- credentials, and a swifter charging system - only 12 minutes for an 80% charge! While the tunnel may offer a speedy, road-based alternative, Scandlines' ferries will endure, offering a more leisurely, scenic voyage for those in no rush. There you have it, my friends! A greener Baltic Sea, coming right up!
Sources:
- [1] Scandlines' Hybrid Ferries to be converted to Plug-in hybrids, reducing CO2 emissions up to 80%: Scandlines Switchover
- [2]Scandlines and partners receive grants from the EU to reduce emissions: Scandlines and Partners Receive Grants
- [3] Fehmarn Belt Facts: Fehmarn Belt Facts
- The shipping company, Scandlines, is not only upgrading two of its ferries to plug-in hybrid ones, but is also planning to make the ferry connection nearly emission-free by 2030.
- This move towards greener shipping aligns with the environmental goals of the Baltic Sea region, aiming to reduce CO2 emissions by up to 80% through the combination of electric power and marine diesel oil or heavy oil.
- In addition to the environmental benefits, the upgraded ferries will also feature charging stations and facilities at both German and Danish terminals, providing a quick 12-minute charge for an 80% battery level.
- Despite the upcoming Fehmarn Belt Tunnel, which offers a speedy, road-based alternative, Scandlines' ferries will continue to provide a more leisurely, scenic voyage for those who appreciate the experience.
