Electrification of passenger ships – pros and cons
The electrification of passenger ships, both cruise and ferries, is becoming increasingly popular as a measure to comply with stringent environmental regulations and improve operational reliability and efficiency, especially for hybrid ships with conventional engines and battery installations. Modern battery technology enables even larger ships or those on longer routes to operate solely on electric propulsion. However, the lifecycle and disposal of these batteries must be considered. Various options exist for recharging, including conventional engines or port-based charging systems, as well as battery swapping. We will explore the pros and cons of battery installations from sustainability and operational perspectives in a concise manner.