Shift Clean Energy installs energy storage system on TMS Canaletto

The TMS Canaletto – an inland tanker operated by the GEFO Shipping Group (GEFO) – has been retrofitted with an advanced energy storage system (ESS) by Shift Clean Energy (Shift) in partnership with Gebhard Electro and Werkina Werkendam. The diesel-electric hybrid vessel now benefits from a 157.5kWh ESS to enhance performance reduce emissions.

The Shift ESS will be used for peak shaving and to optimize the power management’s capability to use the variable speed generators feeding the DC grid. When berthed, the ESS will supply the hotel load. The Canaletto vessel is GEFO’s first to use a hybrid-electric system, and has been designed to operate in extreme low-water scenarios. The vessel is used to transport chemicals across several of Europe’s largest inland waterways.

Dirk Sobotka, technical director for GEFO, said, “The implementation of batteries to optimize and increase the efficiency of power generation and feed it into the DC grid by means of an intelligent power management system is a significant step in the future implementation of new propulsion concepts, technologies and fuels on the way to decarbonizing inland navigation, one of the most important modes of transport for the logistical supply of large industries.”

“New power technologies are entering the market at a rapid pace,” added Marty Vos, head of engineering and service, Werkina. “For shipowners, operators and also classification companies to get comfortable with these new technologies, the merging of multiple energy sources to enable a solid and secure power supply for marine transport is a must. Investments in decarbonization efforts now and in the future with the help of a flexible power management system supports and rewards these efforts to a great extent. The use of batteries significantly improves the flexibility in these installations.”

Gerard Kraaij, managing director, Gebhard Electro, said, “By transitioning away from fossil fuels, the marine industry can significantly reduce its greenhouse gas emissions while increasing efficiency, reducing operating costs and providing a quieter, smoother ride for crew.”