“We actually see batteries as an enabler for other technologies” - MBF Director (Special feature for WAVES)
In a special feature for the Singapore Shipping Association’s e-newsletter “WAVES”, the MBF director, Syb Ten Cate Hoedemaker discusses the benefits of batteries in whatever situation for decarbonization.
Photo - Syb Ten Cate Hoedemaker at WATTS UP 2024
While it seems unlikely that electric vessels alone will salve the net zero challenge, they are at the forefront of the new technology and their success will rely on the batteries supporting them. Syb Ten Cate Hoedemaker, Managing Director at Maritime Battery Forum, is convinced that the battery technology available today performs well enough to provide energy to most ships, particularly if they are operating hybrid propulsion systems.
"We actually see the battery as an enabler for other technologies. lt allows you to increase the efficiency of whatever technologies you are utilising. For example, if you have a shaft generator, a battery will allow you to maximise the benefits." Although batteries represent new technology, efforts have been made to reduce the complications of installing them. lntegrating batteries into shipping containers or similar sized structures is one solution to make it easier to install batteries on board ships. This can be as a fixed structure on deck or as a swappable battery pack. Syb continues, "By placing batteries in containers it will be possible to switch to different types in the coming years as technology moves ahead, perhaps to hydrogen, methanol or ammonia -based systems, or a combination of them.
““We actually see the battery as an enabler for other technologies. lt allows you to increase the efficiency of whatever technologies you are utilising. For example, if you have a shaft generator, a battery will allow you to maximise the benefits.””