Swedish battery system developer Echandia has been selected to supply energy storage systems for eight newbuild cargo vessels, with an option for two more vessels, owned by Spliethoff Group.
The vessels are being built at Wuhu Shipyard in China, with WE Tech Solutions handling systems integration. The battery systems will be installed to optimise generator efficiency during cargo loading and unloading operations, a demanding application requiring short but intense bursts of power.
Where other systems would need to be significantly large to handle the same load, increasing both cost and space requirements, Echandia’s solution maintains full performance within a compact footprint, it said. The system also has a lifetime of 20 years.
The battery systems are also designed to stabilise engine load, improve fuel efficiency and reduce mechanical wear. They also reduce the shore-power connection power requirements.
“This project is a great example of how battery systems can improve operational efficiency in heavy-duty applications beyond propulsion,” said Torbjörn Bäck, ceo at Echandia. “Working with Spliethoff, WE Tech Solutions, and Wuhu Shipyard, we’re providing a smarter and more energy-efficient way to handle cargo operations.”
The vessels will operate primarily on the Finland–USA trade route, transporting paper and other cargoes. The first delivery of Echandia battery systems is scheduled for April 2027, with commissioning expected in late 2027 or early 2028.
