Stena Line are the latest ferry operator to test the feasibility of battery power for ferry propulsion.

In 2016, we looked at hybrid ferry developments and with the launch of Wightlink's new flagship hybrid ferry, Victoria of Wight last month, we may now be seeing the future of ferry travel.

As part of Stena Line's ongoing sustainability strategy, they are beginning to test several environmentally friendly energy options. A one megawatt battery will be installed on the Stena Jutlandica, which operates between Gothenburg and Frederikshavn.

"Sustainability is very high on our agenda and we are constantly evaluating new ways to reduce our impact on the environment.  From 2015, for example, methanol has been part of the fuel mix on the Stena Germanica, which operates between Gothenburg and Kiel, and we also run around 300 different energy saving projects to help us achieve our goal.  As both the size and cost of batteries decreases, battery operation is becoming a very exciting alternative to traditional fuels for shipping, with the added prospect of emissions to the air being completely eliminated"

says Stena Line’s CEO Niclas Mårtensson.

The first part of the battery project will involve the Stena Jutlandica switching to battery power when berthing in port. The batteries will be responsible for powering the bow thrusters and manoeuvring.

The second part will test extended battery operation by connecting the batteries to the propeller, with batteries powering the vessel for around 10 nautical miles.

The third and final test will demonstrate the ability of the batteries to provide power for the entire distance between Gothenburg and Frederikshavn, which is approximately 50 nautical miles.

The project is supported by Callenberg Technology Group, Stena Teknik, the Swedish Maritime Administration and the EU.

If successful, we may see Stena Line's entire fleet of 38 vessels equipped with batteries in the not so distant future.

What do you think of battery power as the next big thing for ferry travel? Is it a feasible alternative to diesel, or even other alternative fuels such as hydrogen? Let us know