Norway’s Fjord 1 to convert two fast ferries to all-electric power
2024 will see leading Norwegian west coast ferry operator Fjord 1 convert its two recently acquired 275-passenger capacity fast ferries Terningen and Tyrhaug from high-speed diesel-powered vessels to zero emission all-electric powered vessels. Both fast ferries, built in 2014, were acquired from Kystekspressen and following conversion will enter service from January 2025 on Fjord 1’s new service between Bergen and Askøy.
New regulations in Norway require that all ferries operating on the country’s fjords to switch to zero emission propulsion systems by 2026.
The conversion project will be undertaken by Norwegian specialist fast ferry shipbuilder and repairer Brødrene Aa, with Brunvoll being appointed as systems integrator and supplier of the new electric propulsion system. Brunvoll will install a DC switchboard, electric motors, inverters and an electric charging system on each 34-knot fast ferry. The new components will be integrated into Brunvoll Mar-El’s propulsion and energy management system. The major conversion of Terningen and Tyrhaug will see both vessels original twin MTU high-speed diesels removed and replaced by a zero emission electric propulsion system with a power output of 2,200 kW. Brunvoll is set to deliver its compact, integrated system to the shipyard in the third and fourth quarters of 2024.
Fjord 1 has been awarded a 15-year contract to operate the Bergen City ferry routes from January 1st, 2025.
