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DFDS to spend a billion on battery ferries

[ May 14, 2024   //   ]

DFDS says it will invest €1 billion in battery-powered vessels as part of its previously-announced plan to electrify its operations on the English Channel.

The Danish-owned operator says that it will deploy six battery electric ships on the Dunkirk-Dover and Calais-Dover routes to carry freight and passengers. The first two will be in operation by 2030, with the rest is expected to follow before 2035.

DFDS says it is working with world-leading experts in battery technology, ship design and energy efficiency to design the ferries,- along with national authorities, infrastructure partners and energy suppliers to secure the energy supply and infrastructure. The French government recently launched a plan for the country’s energy transition, focusing on infrastructure.

DFDS chief executive Torben Carlsen said: “This is an important step towards decarbonising cross-Channel transport. Because of the relatively short distance between the UK and France, the routes are optimal for electric ferry transport. The electrification of our cross-Channel fleet will be an important step towards meeting our climate targets and, with this investment, we are accelerating the transition to a greener future for the shipping industry.”

But he added: “The green transition is not something we can achieve on our own. Without access to sufficient power supply on land and infrastructure to accommodate charging facilities in ports, we cannot operate the ships. I am pleased that we have a shared ambition with governments on both sides of the Channel to enable green transport corridors.”

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