The world's first all-electric, autonomous freighter has made its debut in Norway. Target is to replace 40,000 diesel shipping trips annually. The Yara Birkeland made a short, manned trip to capital Oslo as part of the unveiling. Work will now begin to certify the vessel as a container ship before commercial operations can begin.
Joint venture
A joint venture between chemical manufacturing company Yara and maritime technology company Kongsberg, the Yara Birkeland was announced in 2017 as the world's first all-electric, autonomous container ship. The plan is to use the vessel to transport chemicals and fertilisers from Yara's production plant in Prosgrunn to nearby cities. This will significantly reduce NOx and CO2 emissions by eliminating the need for diesel-powered truck transport.
The 80-metre vessel is powered by a 6.8 MWh battery pack and can carry up to 3,200 tonnes at a maximum speed of 15 knots (28 km/h). Yara is not only contributing to the development of the vessel but is using its own reserves of ammonia to develop a carbon-free fuel for possible use aboard the Yara Birkeland. Although and many bottlenecks remain, there is a large to and growing interest in ammonia as an alternative to diesel for long-haul shipping.
Test period
With its maiden voyage behind it, the Yara Birkeland will begin commercial operations in 2022, while a two-year testing period will take place to certify it as an autonomous vehicle. Technology company Kongsberg will be responsible for integrating the sensors and other systems for autonomous navigation. On the way to full autonomy, there will also be a phase where the ship will be operated remotely.
The Yara Birkeland is an excellent example of green transition in practice and the beginning of a new type of emission-free container ships. That development could provide relief from congested roads in many places. In the video below, you can see excerpts from the Yara Birkeland's maiden voyage.
