CMAL selects Remontowa shipbuilding for electric ferry contract
New Electric Ferries Contract Awarded in Scotland
Caledonian Maritime Assets Limited (CMAL) has selected Remontowa Shipbuilding S.A. from Gdansk, Poland, as the lead bidder for a significant contract to construct seven new loch-class electric ferries. This announcement comes after a 10-day standstill period following the tender process. The initiative is part of the Small Vessel Replacement Programme (SVRP), aimed at enhancing ferry services for island communities in Scotland.
Details of the Small Vessel Replacement Programme
The Small Vessel Replacement Programme is set to revolutionize ferry services in the Clyde and Hebrides regions. The first phase of the project will involve the construction of seven fully electric ferries, with an additional three vessels planned for a second phase later this year. These new ferries are expected to be delivered by 2027, significantly improving connectivity for island residents and visitors alike.
In the initial selection process, six shipyards were invited to submit bids, with five responding. The evaluation criteria were meticulously designed, weighing technical aspects at 65% and financial considerations at 35%. A panel comprising marine specialists and CMAL experts assessed the bids. Ultimately, Remontowa’s proposal stood out as the highest-scoring, securing the contract to build the new vessels.
Fiona Hyslop, Cabinet Secretary for Transport, expressed her enthusiasm for this development, emphasizing the positive impact these ferries will have on island connectivity and sustainability. Kevin Hobbs, Chief Executive of CMAL, reiterated the importance of adhering to Scotland’s Public Procurement Strategy and expressed confidence in Remontowa’s capability to deliver high-quality vessels, referencing their successful collaboration on the MV Finlaggan in 2011.
Anticipated Impact on the Fleet
Duncan Mackison, Chief Executive Officer of CalMac, hailed the confirmation of Remontowa as a lead bidder as a pivotal moment for the ferry service. He noted that the introduction of these new electric ferries, along with six major vessels expected to join the fleet in 2025 and 2026, will result in a renewal of one-third of the current fleet. This modernization is crucial for enhancing the resilience and efficiency of the ferry network, which serves vital routes for island communities.
The commitment to electric ferries aligns with broader sustainability goals, aiming to reduce the environmental impact of ferry operations. As the project progresses, stakeholders and communities will be keenly watching the developments, anticipating the benefits these new vessels will bring to Scotland’s maritime transport landscape.
