Eitzen targets world’s largest all-electric boxships

Norway’s Eitzen Group is making waves in maritime innovation by planning to construct battery-powered containerships, poised to be the largest of their kind globally. Eitzen Avanti, a subsidiary of the Eitzen Group, has secured NOK 200 million ($19 million) from Enova, the state-owned entity dedicated to advancing green energy solutions. This funding will support the development of two new vessels, each designed to carry 850 twenty-foot equivalent units (teu).

Innovative Maritime Solutions for Sustainable Shipping

The upcoming vessels will feature impressive battery packs exceeding 100 megawatt-hours (MWh), enabling them to transport containers across routes that connect Norway, Sweden, and Germany. This initiative marks a significant step towards the electrification of maritime transport. Andreas Jahn, a senior advisor at Enova, emphasized the significance of these projects, stating, “These projects show in their own way what is possible with battery electrification in shipping. The technology is now mature, and the projects exist.” Jahn further noted that this endeavor could herald a new era in short sea shipping, following the initial electrification wave seen in car ferries.

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Currently, the title for the world’s largest battery-powered containership belongs to COSCO’s Greenwater 01, a fully electric vessel boasting a capacity of 700 teu and a battery capacity that can be expanded up to 80,000 kWh. This ship began operations in April 2024, navigating routes between Shanghai and Nanjing along the Yangtze River. In a parallel effort, Ningbo Ocean Shipping Co (NBOSCO) has also entered the battery-electric market, ordering two 740 teu feeders for coastal operations in China, with expected deliveries in 2026.

Future Developments and Project Details

While the announcement of Eitzen Group’s newbuilds has generated excitement, further details regarding the shipyard selections and expected delivery timelines remain undisclosed. The decision to invest in battery-powered containerships aligns with a growing trend in the shipping industry towards sustainable practices and reduced carbon emissions. As the world continues to seek greener alternatives, projects like these underscore the potential of electrification in transforming maritime logistics.

As the industry evolves, the Eitzen Group’s ambitious plans could play a pivotal role in shaping the future of sustainable shipping, setting a benchmark for other companies to follow.