Germany’s First Fully Electric Ferry completes sea trial

The E-Kat, Germany’s first fully electric seagoing vessel, has successfully completed its acceptance trials and is ready for deployment. This catamaran ferry represents a significant advancement in battery-powered maritime transport, highlighting the increasing viability of electric power in the shipping industry. With its launch, the E-Kat joins a growing fleet of environmentally friendly ferries aimed at reducing carbon emissions and enhancing travel efficiency.

Details of the E-Kat Ferry

Designed and built by Damen Group, the E-Kat was launched on June 29 in Gorinchem, Netherlands. Although its initial test runs were planned for summer, the vessel faced slight delays. AG Reederei Norden-Frisia, the ferry’s owner, announced that acceptance trials were completed on January 15, confirming that all necessary permits, insurance, and official approvals are in place for service commencement.

The ferry is constructed from aluminum, measuring approximately 106 feet (32.3 meters) in length, and can accommodate up to 150 passengers with a payload capacity of 11,250 kg. It is designed to operate at speeds of 16 knots, with a maximum capability of 19 knots. The route will connect Norddeich in western Germany to Norderney, one of the East Frisian Islands, significantly reducing travel time to just 30 minutes. The ferry is expected to make up to eight trips daily.

Propulsion for the E-Kat comes from two electric motors, each rated at 600 kW, driving two propellers. Additionally, it features two 75 kW electric bow thrusters for enhanced maneuverability. The battery and power system, developed by Dutch company EST-Floattech, utilizes the Octopus High Energy battery system. Charging infrastructure has been largely installed, with full power charging tests successfully conducted at the pier.

Once docked in Norddeich, the E-Kat will recharge using shore power connections, taking approximately 28 minutes for a full charge. This will provide enough energy for a round trip, covering a distance of about 11 km (7 miles). AG Reederei Norden-Frisia aims to create a sustainable cycle of electricity production and consumption, having already installed photovoltaic systems at their facilities and providing charging stations for electric vehicles.

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