In the heart of Europe’s maritime industry, a quiet revolution is underway. The Dutch company Zero Emission Services (ZES) has deployed six of its ZESpacks in a mobile shorepower operation, supplying energy to the Cargow’s coaster while it’s docked. This isn’t just a story about one vessel; it’s a glimpse into a future where electric vessels are the norm, not the exception. But as with any significant shift, the path is not without its challenges.
Many European countries are looking to shore-charged batteries to power short-hop ferries and tour boats, aiming to improve local air quality. However, the road to electrification is proving to be longer and bumpier than initially anticipated. The planned new vessels are taking their sweet time to come into operation, and concerns about crew training and safety remain as pressing as ever.
Norway, with its sensitive marine environment, has been a pioneer in adopting battery-powered ferries. The Norwegian Maritime Authority (NMA) is set to introduce a zero-emissions requirement for vessels visiting its five western UNESCO world heritage fjords from next year. The plan is phased, applying from 2026 to passenger vessels with capacity for over 12 people and under 10,000 GT. From 2032, the rules would apply to passenger ships of over 10,000 GT. The NMA acknowledges that battery power is a good alternative for vessels under 10,000 GT and that access to shore power is crucial to meeting the zero-emissions requirement.
The phased approach recognises that the fuel technology for the largest ships is still being developed. P&O Cruises, which operates cruises to Norway’s fjords, has stated its commitment to complying with all laws and regulations, including future changes enacted by the Norwegian government. The company is investing in technologies and solutions to reduce its greenhouse gas footprint, including trialling maritime scale battery technology and methanol-powered fuel cells.
However, the transition to electric vessels is not without its hurdles. Odd Rune Malterud, assistant director and technical manager of the Norwegian Union of Marine Engineers, highlights the risks to seafarers of operating battery technology. These include high voltage, cable accidents, electrical fires, and toxic gases. He stresses the importance of ship-specific training, as there is no industry-wide design for battery systems or charging connections.
The Norwegian Maritime Officers’ Association notes that the upcoming changes will have little impact on its members, as they are already operating the battery-powered ferries in the fjords. However, all unions, including Nautilus International, will be remaining vigilant over members’ battery safety and training requirements as Norway’s new rules are implemented.
The current state of play with electric vessels is a mix of successes and drawbacks. While Norway leads the way in adopting battery-powered ferries, the rest of Europe is lagging behind. The challenges are manifold, from the lack of industry-wide standards for battery systems and charging connections to the high cost of training courses for seafarers.
The news of ZES’s deployment of mobile shorepower operations is a step in the right direction. It shows that the technology is available and can be used effectively. However, for the sector to move forward, more needs to be done. Shipowners need to invest in training for their crews. Governments need to provide clear regulations and incentives for the adoption of electric vessels. And the industry as a whole needs to work together to develop industry-wide standards for battery systems and charging connections.
The future of the maritime industry is electric, but the path to get there is not straightforward. The challenges are significant, but so are the opportunities. As the sector navigates this transition, it will need to draw on the lessons learned from Norway and other pioneers. It will need to invest in technology and training, and it will need to work together to overcome the hurdles that lie ahead. The journey to electrification is underway, and the maritime industry is at a crossroads. The choices it makes now will shape the future of the sector for decades to come.