Wärtsilä is to supply an integrated electric propulsion system for a third high-speed battery-electric ferry being built for Danish operator Molslinjen at the Incat shipyard in Tasmania.
The vessel is the third in a series of battery-electric catamaran ferries for Molslinjen, with Wärtsilä providing propulsion solutions for all three ships. Each ferry will be 129m long and 30.5m wide, with capacity for up to 1,483 passengers and 500 cars. The vessels are scheduled to enter service on the Kattegat route in 2027 and 2028.
Wärtsilä’s scope of supply for the third ferry includes an integrated electric propulsion system, DC power conversion, energy management and automation systems, eight electric propulsion motors and waterjets, and the Wärtsilä ProTouch propulsion control system.
Kristian Durhuus, CEO of Molslinjen, said, “Our commitment is to have fully sustainable ferry operations. Wärtsilä’s electrification technology will enable us to make harmful smoke emissions a thing of the past, and we had no hesitation in opting for their solutions again for this third ferry.”
Roger Holm, president of Wärtsilä Marine and executive vice president at Wärtsilä Corporation, said, “This series of battery-electric ships highlights the ferry industry’s focus toward decarbonized operations. Wärtsilä is similarly committed to supporting the decarbonization of shipping, and our technology reflects our emphasis on sustainability, innovation and performance. The move toward net-zero emissions is well underway, and we at Wärtsilä are proud to be at the forefront of this transition.”
Stephen Casey, CEO of Incat, said, “Electrification is very much the future for ferry operators around the world, and battery-based propulsion is a very viable option for owners and operators looking to increase the sustainability of their fleets. Large-scale, low-emission transport solutions are not only possible but are ready and available today. Incat Tasmania supports this trend through its record of pioneering new technology and design.”
The electric-driven waterjet configuration is designed to provide low-weight, shallow-draft operation and improved efficiency. Wärtsilä said its equipment for the third vessel is scheduled for delivery to the shipyard in 2027.
In related news, Wärtsilä to provide ammonia engine for new Skarv Shipping cargo vessel