Moving ahead with hybrid marine power

Over the three days, a dynamic group of three keynote speakers and 20 presenters highlighted the latest technology and opportunities for the maritime sector on a global scale.

Among the highlights was a keynote talk by Captain Don Cockrill, Secretary General of UK Maritime Pilots Association, on ‘Powering the Modern Port – Ships, Tugs and the Hidden Fleet of Support Vessels.’

His overview showed that there is a complex diversity of maritime work-horse vessels that make essential contributions to the safety and efficiency of port operations.

Among other topics discussed at the conference included The UK MCA new Marine Guidance Note 550 on, ‘Guidance for Safe Design, Installation and Operation of Lithium-ion Batteries.’

This new guidance aims to facilitate safe and environmentally-friendly lithium-ion battery solutions for vessels utilising lithium-ion batteries as part of a hybrid power system or as the sole source of propulsion power.

On the last day of the conference, Wightlink Ferries announced that it had signed a contract to build a new hybrid ship for its Portsmouth to Fishbourne route.

The new ferry will be the most environmentally friendly ever to serve the Isle of Wight route helping to reduce the ferry operator’s carbon footprint.

It will cost over €30 million and enter service in 2018 using hybrid battery technology, as well as conventional fuel, to reduce emissions and make the vessel quieter. The Cemre shipyard in Turkey has won the contract to carry out the work.