Marine battery manufacturer AYK Energy will supply battery systems with a combined capacity of almost 1.96MWh for a new hybrid dredger and an electric patrol-vessel conversion.
The two projects extend AYK’s collaboration with Dutch maritime electrical integrator Gebhard Electro, which will install and integrate the battery systems.
AYK will supply a 318kWh liquid-cooled Polaris battery system for a new TSHD1000 trailing suction hopper dredger under construction at Damen Shipyards in the Netherlands.
The diesel-electric dredger is being built for UK Dredging, part of Associated British Ports, and will combine its propulsion system with integrated energy storage.
AYK said the installation would be among the first to use its liquid-cooled Polaris system following DNV type approval. Gebhard Electro will undertake the complete electrical installation and system integration.
The second project will convert the Port of Rotterdam’s RPA 8 patrol vessel from hybrid to fully electric propulsion. AYK will supply a 1.64MWh PiscesA+ battery system, with Gebhard Electro integrating the electrical energy system during the retrofit.
AYK did not disclose the chemistry of either battery system or provide delivery and commissioning dates for the vessels.
AYK Energy founder Chris Kruger said: “Our partnership with Gebhard Electro continues to demonstrate how battery technology is becoming an increasingly important part of modern vessel design and retrofit projects. Together we are delivering practical solutions that improve efficiency, reduce emissions and support the maritime industry’s transition towards lower-carbon operations.”
Gebhard Electro managing director Gerard Kraaij said: “Our collaboration with AYK Energy is built on a shared commitment to delivering reliable and future-ready solutions for the maritime sector. Battery technology is a key component of vessel electrification, but its real value is achieved through effective system integration. We are pleased to continue working together on projects that help our customers operate more efficiently and sustainably.”
Previous projects involving the two companies include the fully electric Volta maintenance vessel for Martens en Van Oord and the retrofitted hybrid tug VB Kracht for Boluda Towage.
AYK supplied Volta with a 2.2MWh Aries+S battery system for operation on inland waterways. It also delivered an 82kWh Orion battery system for VB Kracht.
Kruger said demand for battery systems in the workboat market was increasing as falling battery costs and improvements in efficiency strengthened the commercial case for electrification.
He said: “Workboat operators can see the value that battery power can deliver for inland waterways and coastal vessels – performance, cost, safety and the reduction of carbon emissions. The business case is compelling. The cost of batteries is reducing and the technology is evolving, delivering greater efficiencies. It is no longer just a green message. Our batteries are providing value and they pay for themselves within a matter of years. This is both the present and the future of marine propulsion.”
Photo: Port of Rotterdam’s RPA 8 patrol vessel
Credit: AYK Energy
