ABB and Seafjord Energy introduce pioneering e-bunker vessel concept

ABB’s power and propulsion solution was chosen by SeaFjord Energy, a Swedish innovator in marine energy solutions, for a pioneering e-bunker vessel concept that offers a new way of supplying energy to ships at sea, in fjords or in ports. The vessel concept, developed in collaboration with FKAB Marine Design and Bureau Veritas, a French company specialized in testing, inspection and certification, will feature a large battery pack capable of providing renewable energy where traditional shore power infrastructure is less accessible, such as remote fjords and offshore locations.

Image credit: FKAB Marine Design

The e-bunker vessel can be charged through a shore connection or draw energy directly from a wind farm, utilizing ABB’s charging system. ABB’s technology is envisioned to be used for charging other vessels at sea, with the e-bunker designed to deliver up to 50 megawatts of power to ships of different sizes, from small to large.

The vessel design benefits from two ABB Dynafin™ propulsion units to maximize propulsion efficiency and responsiveness in all operational situations. Maximum propulsion efficiency is crucial for a concept of this kind as it minimizes the energy required to power the vessel, thereby making more energy available for charging other ships. ABB Dynafin™ propulsion’s combined motion of the wheel and blades generates propulsion and steering forces simultaneously, enabling ground-breaking operational efficiency and precision for ships. Additionally, the propulsors integrate seamlessly with ABB’s Onboard DC Grid™ power system platform, enhancing the vessel’s overall performance.

The Onboard DC Grid™ is a modular and highly customizable power system platform that enables simple, flexible and functional integration of energy sources and loads. Its versatility is well suited to meet the e-bunker’s operational requirements.

PEMS™ is the core of the vessel’s combined power and control system, ensuring optimal use of the vessel’s total power resources in a safe, energy-efficient and environmentally friendly manner. ABB’s solution optimizes energy use and flow onboard, as well as towards the vessels bunkering from it.