Partnership with system integrator EMS pulls the Dutch ESS manufacturer into its third hydrogen-electric project

EST-Floattech, Dutch maritime battery sypplier is contracted by EMS (Electric Marine Support), the Dutch system integrator in inland, seagoing and recreational shipping markets, to participate in projects for Rhenus and their ambitious fleet enhancement initiative. Rhenus PartnerShip, the prominent shipping branch of the company, has invested in sustainable inland waterway transportation with a ground-breaking project, featuring three new inland shipping combination vessels ‘Mannheim I+II’, ‘Wörth I+II’ and ‘Ludwigshafen’.

Two different hybrid propulsion systems

‘Mannheim I+II’ and ‘Wörth I+II’ will sail with a hybrid propulsion systems: one diesel-electric vessel and one fuel-cell system inland waterway vessel. Each will be equipped with six ‘strings’ of High Energy batteries from EST-Floattech’s Octopus Series. ‘Mannheim I+II’ is already successfully commissioned and sailing.

Ronald Hamstra, CEO at EMS says:

“To EMS, the Rhenus expansion project is interesting from the viewpoint of innovation and sustainable shipping. It fits nicely with our motto: ‘Quality is a way of life and not an obligation’ and I think it’s showing the inland shipping industry the way forward. It’s also quite complex. We decided for EST-Floattech battery packs not only because the Octopus Series meets all our technical requirements, but also because of their fast, transparent and open communication. We see EST-Floattech and their team as partners throughout the process and are pleased with the seamless cooperation with our team.

Low-emission flagships

According to Rhenus, the project embraces the full spectrum of technological advancements available in the field of inland navigation. The push-barge convoys, which are optimised for shallow waters, can still navigate the Rhine river with a draught of 1.20 m. These two coupling units will serve as the low-emission flagships of the Rhenus fleet. The construction process is taking place at Den Breejen Shipyard in the Netherlands.

Hydrogen-electric propulsion (Octopus Series)

The pioneering vessel ‘Mannheim’ sails with a hydrogen-electric propulsion system. This hybrid system integrates a hydrogen-based fuel cell with the Octopus Series battery solution and state-of-the art generators. EST-Floattech developed this scalable, safe and advanced Energy Storage Solution (ESS) entirely in-house. The propellor shaft of the vessel is driven by an electric motor, setting a precedent for sustainable shipping practices. Thanks to this propulsion system the vessels will have 70% less exhaust compared to similar vessels with conventional propulsion.

Fit for the future: remote control

The ‘Wörth’ will be equipped with a diesel-electric propulsion system, comprising EST-Floattech batteries and low-emission Stage V engines. Notably, this ship possesses the flexibility to be converted to operate on fuel cells and it can be operated by remote control, which shows the Rhenus Group’s commitment to cutting-edge technologies.

Thomas Kaulbach, Managing Director of Rhenus PartnerShip, states:

“The EST-Floattech battery system is known for its safety and robustness. They are a trusted company to work with, as they have more than ten years of experience and a conveniently located Hamburg office. Their Octopus Series battery system helps us reach our goal of emission-free sailing.”

Convinced by the system

During the construction of the first two ships, it was decided to add a third to the series, the ‘Ludwigshafen’. Again, a battery system consisting of 84 Octopus Series modules will be installed in combination with a fuel cell to transport containers between Basel and Rotterdam as emission-efficiently as possible.

Walter van der Pennen, CCO at EST-Floattech concludes:

“We’re proud that we can contribute to these innovative projects with our Octopus Series battery system. We thank both EMS and Rhenus to have us collaborate on these projects that will significantly reduce emissions. By providing our advanced and reliable battery technology, we support the companies in realising their sustainability goals, contributing to a cleaner and more efficient maritime industry.”

Images (C) Rhenus and Contargo