Danfoss powers two new zero-emission ferries for Molslinjen

Thursday, 26 January, 2023
100% electric Molslinjen ferry powered by Danfoss drives and power converters

DENMARK: In 2024, the short-sea ferry operator Molslinjen will introduce two 100% electric ferries powered by Danfoss drives and power converters. The ferries will serve Molslinjen’s routes to the islands of Als and Samsø.

Danfoss power converters feature on both vessels, powering battery power conversion on board, and the vessel charging systems onshore. In addition, Danfoss drives will deliver precision control to the electric propulsion motors.

The relationship between Molslinjen and Danfoss is well established after previous electric ferry deliveries, where Danfoss contributed with power conversion topology and selection, commissioning, and maintenance to ensure successful and sustainable operation with long lifetime.

“We feel very honored to be selected once again by Molslinjen, especially because of the importance of the project. We look forward to commissioning in the New Year and to follow the project in the future,” says Claus Larsen, Country Manager, Danfoss Drives Sales Denmark.

This order represents the next generation and size of passenger vessels which are 100% electric-powered, running on batteries. Each of the new vessels has a total length of 116.8 meters, with capacity for 600 passengers and 188 cars. The vessels are prepared for autonomous sailing between ports, with automatic docking and charging at quay.

For the benefit of passengers, the vessels are designed for rapid charging to ensure fast turnaround in port, so the ferries can sail according to tight timetables. Passengers and crew will experience significantly less noise on board, by comparison with conventional vessels. These vessels also contribute significantly to sustainable RoPax transport of the future, in terms of optimal weight, safety and total cost. As well as reducing emissions at sea, the clean technology on board helps the ports to meet IMO emission targets, for clean air onshore.

Molslinjen aims to connect Denmark by enabling free movement for as many passengers as possible, whilst meeting ambitious climate targets. ”We have set ambitious goals for fossil-free ferries: we will reach zero CO2 emission on our western routes by 2028. We will reduce CO2 emission by 70% by 2030. And we will achieve CO2-neutrality in 2050,” states Carsten Jensen, Managing Director of Molslinjen.

For more information, please contact Claus Larsen, Country Manager, Danfoss Drives Sales Denmark, at claus.larsen@danfoss.com.