OSV Cuts Costs with new Energy Storage Solution
Eidesvik’s offshore supply vessel (OSV) Viking Princess reportedly can now operate with only three generators instead of four after a retrofit of an energy storage solution with The Switch DC-Hub at its heart, helping the 5,381 GWT ship to save around a ton of fuel every day.
The solution entails replacing one of the main generators of Viking Princess by batteries connected to a DC-Hub. This energy solution allows the shipowner to reduce the operating costs, fuel consumption and emissions associated with the previous generator that is no longer needed.
According to Asbjørn Halsebakke, General Manager Norway, Yaskawa Environmental Energy / The Switch, this demonstrates a clear path forward for an industry where cost and sustainability are key.
The delivery schedule for the installation was extremely tight, with only 14 weeks from initial discussions to completion. Normally, a delivery of this scale may be expected to take between four and six months. The system was installed at Westcon Yards in Ølensvåg, Norway.
The Switch technology forms a key part of a wider energy storage solution offered by Wärtsilä.
Yaskawa Environmental Energy / The Switch Norway, Wärtsilä and Eidesvik are all members of the NCE Maritime CleanTech cluster, which is focused on improving energy efficiency and environmental performance within the shipping industry worldwide.
