Finnish power system manufacturer Wärtsilä has secured a contract to supply a fully integrated electric propulsion system for two new high-speed catamaran ferries.
These battery-electric vessels, commissioned by Danish ferry operator Molslinjen, are set to be constructed at the Incat shipyard in Tasmania and will serve the Kattegat route.
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The vessels are expected to boost the route’s capacity for cars and passengers by over 25% upon being commissioned into the Danish fleet between 2027 and 2028.
The two ferries, each with a length of 129m and a width of 30.5m, will be capable of carrying up to 1,483 passengers and 500 cars.
Molslinjen CEO Kristian Durhuus said: “This is a major project that supports the ferry industry’s move towards more decarbonised operations.
“With these electric ferries built by Incat and powered by Wärtsilä’s electrification technology, we aim to remove thousands of tonnes of CO₂ emissions from Denmark’s climate footprint each year.”
Wärtsilä will supply the integrated electric propulsion system, the DC power conversion system, and its energy management and automation systems.
The scope of delivery also includes eight electric propulsion motors, waterjets, and the ProTouch propulsion control system, designed to enhance sailing efficiency and manoeuvrability.
The eight electrically powered waterjets configuration has reduced weight, enables operation in shallow waters, requires minimal maintenance, and improves safety and dependability.
Additionally, these waterjets provide exceptional agility due to their combined steering and reversing capabilities.
Equipment delivery for the Danish ferries is scheduled to begin in 2026.
Wärtsilä Marine president and Wärtsilä executive vice president Roger Holm said: “Our partnership with Molslinjen and Incat not only brings electric vessels to the Kattegat route but also continues our joint commitment in accelerating the industry’s path towards net-zero emissions shipping.
“Wärtsilä’s values and principles in shipping are deeply rooted in sustainability, innovation, and performance, and through our experience in vessel electrification, we have already delivered solutions for 150 hybrid-electric ships, with this number continuing to grow.”
Wärtsilä’s Gas Solutions division has also secured a contract to supply cargo handling and fuel gas systems for five new Very Large Ethane Gas Carriers (VLECs) for Japanese ship owner Mitsui OSK Lines, being built at Samsung Heavy Industries in Korea.
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