The Japan Shipowners’ Association has announced that the Japanese shipbuilding industry will face the GHG1 net zero challenge in 2050. One of its most important initiatives is e5 Lab Inc., a consortium consisting of Asahi Tanker Co., Ltd., Exeno Yamamizu Corporation, Mitsui O.S.K. Lines, Ltd. and Mitsubishi Corporation, to develop new commercial propulsion ships.
E5 Lab, which addresses decarbonisation issues for the Japanese shipping industry, recently introduced ROBOSHIP, a biomass fuel carrier design powered by a fully standardized electric propulsion system that enables zero-emission port operations. Built in Honda Heavy Industries Co., Ltd., the 70-meter-long, 499-tonne gross tonnage will include ABB’s fully modular electric drive package, which will allow it to use more energy sources for optimized operating efficiency and emission-free operation. Other benefits of the system include reduced noise and vibration, reduced maintenance costs and improved driving capabilities, which greatly facilitate docking and piercing operations.
“ABB’s cooperation exceeds our expectations to deliver world-class technology and efficiency, maximum safety and reliability, specific size and weight reduction, unique to offshore vessels.” said Mr. Yasumasa Suetsugu, Chief Technology Officer, e5 Lab. “In addition, high digital compatibility will help reduce operating and maintenance costs. Our goal is to make a significant contribution to solving environmental problems and reducing the workload of crews sailing to the coast of Japan.”
Mr. Masao Akamatsu, President of IHI Power Systems, said: “Our marine energy systems team has decided to work with ABB based on its excellent global reputation as an integrator of marine electrical systems and reliable high quality products and services.”
“We are honored to have been selected for this groundbreaking project, which has played a major role in the effort to decarbonise Japanese shipping,” said Juha Koskela, President of ABB Marine & Ports. “Electric boats are key to a sustainable future for the shipbuilding industry – and we are proud to be able to provide our customers with more efficient motor-driven solutions that comply with current regulations and shipments. Integrate with future emission-free energy sources.”
ABB’s award-winning Onboard DC Grid power distribution system is modular and can accommodate a wide range of ship types – from most seagoing ships to small ships that operate at lower power over shorter distances and in groundwater routes. A solution that proves that future ships will get a clean energy source for emissions-free operation – without compromising speed or range. The on-board DC Grid also reduces electrical equipment requirements by eliminating the need for large transformers and main switchboards. This provides more cargo space, provides more flexibility in placing components in the ship’s system, and increases cargo capacity.
- Advertisement -
ABB’s full range of supplies includes a standard system package that includes electric drive hardware, including drive motors, DSC circuit boards, batteries and power generators, and the ABB Ability ™ Marine Remote Diagnostic System for continuous monitoring and remote support.
