“AYK Energy” has signed a contract to supply its “Aries+S” system for the world’s first battery-powered self-discharging bulk carrier. The project is seen as a major milestone in the adoption of hybrid technologies in bulk shipping.
The 6,758 kWh battery system will be installed on the 11,000 DWT vessel Yampu, currently under construction in China for Australia’s “CSL Australia.” Developed in partnership with “Wärtsilä,” the vessel will feature a diesel-electric configuration. Batteries, along with shore power, are expected to meet დაახლოებით half of the ship’s total energy demand. The design also allows for a future transition to fully electric operation.
Company founder Chris Kruger noted that bulk carriers have traditionally been difficult to electrify due to high fuel consumption and long operational cycles. According to him, this project demonstrates the growing potential of battery technologies even in long-distance cargo transport.
The Yampu will be used in South Australia to transport limestone for “Adbri Cement,” replacing the aging Accolade II. The new vessel will have an annual carrying capacity of 2.7 million tons—about 35% higher than its predecessor.
Experts say that following ferries and tugboats, the adoption of hybrid systems in bulk carriers signals increasing interest in alternative technologies aimed at reducing emissions in the maritime sector.
