AYK batteries installed on H2 Barge 2

H2 Barge 2

Founders of MBF Member, AYK Energy, Chris Kruger and sales director Edward Carney proudly attended the delivery of "H2 Barge 2" the second hydrogen powered container vessel for Future Proof Shipping at Holland Shipyards Group (HSG) in Werkendam.

The zero emission barge features two high density AYK DNV approved Aries 88 lithium batteries. The 125 watt hour/kilogram (Wh/kg) batteries were installed as part of a complete retrofit at HSG which saw the vessel’s diesel engine replaced with a propulsion system consisting of PEM fuel cells, hydrogen storage, AYK’s battery packs and an electric drive train.

Following the retrofit, the vessel now has a cargo capacity of 190 TEU, with provisions for an additional push barge, enabling FPS to offer carbon-free container shipping on the busy Rotterdam – Duisburg route along the Rhine.

Mr Kruger said the project is the culmination of years of R & D work to refine what AYK believes is ‘the safest, best value marine battery system in the world.’ “This is a landmark moment for AYK Energy and we are very pleased to work with the talented teams at HSG and FPS who share our vision to decarbonise short sea shipping. The battery system on this vessel is easy to install, built to exceed class requirements, with a higher density than many other batteries on the market."

Thijs van der Schaaf HSG’s FPS Waal project manager said: “AYK’s marine battery has significant technical and commercial advantages. We are happy to select them as the battery supplier on the project.”