The class society Indian Register of Shipping (IRS) has announced the successful naming and launch of the electric ferry ‘Dheu,’ built by Garden Reach Shipbuilders & Engineers (GRSE) in Kolkata, India.
The battery-powered newbuilt electric catamaran ferry, with a complement of up to 150 passengers, was constructed under IRS class, having an aluminium hull and a FRP superstructure with fully electric propulsion.
The 24-metre-long twin-hulled catamaran ferry ‘Dheu’ is designed to serve the Government of West Bengal.
Furthermore, is equipped with a 246-kW capacity liquid-cooled battery system which can be charged from both a shore-based source or through deck-mounted solar panels that generate 18 kW per hour.
The ferry has also an efficient Energy Management System, which maximizes the use of the solar power to achieve speeds of up to 10 knots through two 50-kW electric propulsion motors.
The ‘Dheu’ marks the future of green energy in maritime transportation by eliminating carbon emissions associated with diesel engines, but for safety reasons the ship is equipped with a 50-kW Emergency Diesel-Generator set ensuring lighting and power during possible emergencies.
“Dheu’ meets the requirements of our guidelines which we will continue to update as we gain more experience. This vessel not only marks a technological milestone in electric ferry technology, but also signifies the collaborative efforts of IRS and GRSE, ushering in a new era of sustainable and environmentally conscious maritime solutions,” said Vijay Arora, managing director of IRS.
