Grimaldi Group has retrofitted batteries in its Cruise Barcelona and Cruise Roma ferries
It installed a 5.5-MWh battery energy storage systems (ESS) in each of the two ropax cruise ferries. Corvus Energy supplied what it describes as the ‘mega batteries’, which will allow the Grimaldi cruise ferries to turn off their diesel engines and operate solely on battery power with zero emissions for up to four hours during port stays.
The vessels are being retrofitted at Fincantieri. The two ropax ferries are also being lengthened to install more cabins, new public spaces, restaurants and an equipment room for the batteries.
“The Corvus energy storage system is an important component in our vision for sustainable shipping,” said Andrea D’Ambra, energy saving technical department at Grimaldi Euromed.
“An ESS this massive had never before been retrofitted on board a cruise ferry vessel. It is clear now that if shipowners are willing to go green, the technology exists,” said Corvus Energy senior vice president sales Roger Rosvold. “We are extremely proud to be chosen to supply such a groundbreaking installation.”
The two projects started with technical teams from Grimaldi and Corvus Energy sailing aboard Cruise Barcelona to evaluate the optimal electrical and mechanical integration of an energy storage system.
Mr D’Ambra said “We were impressed not only with Corvus’ battery technology and safety features, but also with the company’s knowledge and competence on mechanical, electrical and power systems for the maritime industry.”
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