Kongsberg Maritime is stepping up to the plate as the lead integrator for a transformative green upgrade of the Norwegian Coastal Administration’s (NCA) hybrid vessel, OV Bøkfjord. This initiative marks a significant milestone in the push for greener maritime operations, showcasing how the industry can evolve to meet pressing environmental challenges. The project will see the installation of Kongsberg’s cutting-edge electric Rim-Drive azimuth thrusters, alongside a comprehensive upgrade of the vessel’s hybrid capacity.
The NCA, under the Ministry of Trade, Industry and Fisheries, has long been at the forefront of maritime safety and environmental stewardship. With its extensive reach along Norway’s coastline, the agency plays a crucial role in ensuring not just safety but also the sustainable management of coastal resources. The OV Bøkfjord, which first hit the waves in 2016 as one of Kongsberg’s pioneering battery hybrids, is now set to undergo significant enhancements that align with the NCA’s unwavering commitment to reducing emissions and fostering a sustainable maritime future.
Eivind Midtlid, Sales Manager Offshore Integration & Energy at Kongsberg Maritime, highlights the substantial advancements in hybrid technology since the vessel’s initial launch. “This project proved that the hybrid technology has developed significantly over the last ten years since the OV Bøkfjord was first introduced. Back then, it was a pioneer of its time, and today through this range of upgrades, we’re ensuring it will have even better environmental performance for many years to come.” This sentiment encapsulates the essence of maritime innovation, where past achievements lay the groundwork for future advancements.
The upgrades are not merely cosmetic; they promise to quadruple the battery capacity compared to the original design. This leap in capacity is critical, as it allows the OV Bøkfjord to operate for extended periods on full electric power, significantly curtailing emissions. The vessel will draw its energy from Norway’s hydro-dominated power grid, a renewable resource that underscores the NCA’s commitment to sustainability. The introduction of hydrodynamically optimized propellers will further enhance performance while reducing noise, creating a more favorable environment for both crew and marine life.
Kongsberg Maritime’s engagement in operational and predictive analytics has been instrumental in this project, allowing for an informed comparison of current fuel consumption against various decarbonization strategies. This data-driven approach not only supports the NCA’s emission reduction goals but also sets a precedent for future maritime projects.
As the maritime industry grapples with the dual challenges of climate change and operational efficiency, the OV Bøkfjord upgrade serves as a beacon of what is possible when innovation meets commitment. Kongsberg Maritime and the NCA are not just making incremental changes; they are laying the groundwork for a future where hybrid and fully electric vessels could become the norm rather than the exception. This project is not just about one vessel; it’s about reshaping the narrative of maritime operations towards a greener, more sustainable future.