By
Alice Chambers |
Hurtigruten Norwegian Coastal Express (HNCE), operated by Hurtigruten Norway, has partnered with research organisation SINTEF to create a new fleet of zero-emission ships to use on its Bergen-Kirkenes route in Norway.
The project includes all aspects of a new shipbuilding programme, including design, propulsion planning, energy and fuel research, development of hotel operations, the creation and implementation of digital solutions, as well as the construction of the ships.
“We are excited to announce our most ambitious sustainability initiative to date, creating solutions for zero-emission passenger ships, using the Norwegian coast as the ideal case,” said Daniel Skjeldam, CEO of Hurtigruten Group. “Our ambition is to sail an emission-free Hurtigruten Norwegian Coastal Express ship by 2030.”
The company is currently upgrading its existing fleet to reduce its carbon dioxide and nitrous oxide emissions by 25 and 80 per cent respectively.
“We have built our last fossil-fuelled ship for Hurtigruten Norwegian Coastal Express,” said Hedda Felin, CEO of Hurtigruten Norway. “When we sail the coastal route for the next 100 years, it will be emission-free, making the world's most beautiful voyage even more spectacular.”
HNCE currently calls at 34 ports, meaning that the operator can encourage other organisations to invest in sustainable infrastructure such as shore power connectivity. Norway’s research facilities and maritime industry will contribute towards the initiative.
“With this project, Hurtigruten Norway and SINTEF can show the world that green and sustainable passenger ships can be achieved in the near future,” said Alexandra Bech Gjørv, president of SINTEF. “Cutting emissions in the maritime sector is by no means an easy feat, and we need ambitious companies like Hurtigruten Norway to take initiatives like this.”
The first phase of the project has already begun with research into technological and operational solutions for zero-emission ships. Next, HNCE will invite leading maritime industry partners to develop and improve the ship designs and technologies.
Once Hurtigruten Norway fleet has upgraded its fleet, Hurtigruten Group will have six hybrid vessels in operation.