ABB system to power hybrid-electric biomass fuel carrier
Switzerland-headquartered technology company ABB is to provide an electric-propulsion system for the e5 Lab’s Roboship project to support the decarbonization of the Japanese shipping industry.
The Japanese Shipowners’ Association announced in October 2021 its goal of achieving net zero GHG by 2050, and is supported in this endeavor by the e5 Lab consortium, consisting of Asahi Tanker, Exeno Yamamizu Corporation, Mitsui O.S.K. Lines and the Mitsubishi Corporation, which will further develop renewably powered commercial vessels.
Built by Honda Heavy Industries, the 70m-long and 499-gross ton vessel is said to be the world’s first hybrid-electric biomass fuel carrier and will have ABB’s complete modularized electrical propulsion package installed on board, enabling it to utilize multiple energy sources for optimized operational efficiency and emission-free operations. Furthermore, the new system will lower maintenance costs, reduce noise and vibration levels, and improve the ship’s steering capabilities when pier docking or undocking.