Hurtigruten Norwegian Coastal Express aims to create zero-emission ships that sail the coast of Norway by the end of the decade.
Norwegian research institute SINTEF, which specialises in green maritime technology and energy systems, has been commissioned to work on the project, with the first new-generation ship set to sail in 2030.
The scheme includes all aspects of a new ship build programme, from design, propulsion, energy and fuel to hotel operations and digital solutions.
The goal is that the new ships will be emission-free to both air and sea, and sustainable from a circular economy perspective, according to Hurtigruten. SINTEF will provide analysis, research and development.
The company is currently upgrading its existing fleet in what is claimed to be one of the biggest environmental upgrades of its kind in Europe, that will see CO2-emissions cut by 25% and NOx by 80%.
It aims to be a leader in sustainable travel, with the Norwegian Coastal Express route from Bergen to Kirkenes seen as an ideal starting point for the development of zero-emission passenger ships.
Hurtigruten Norwegian Coastal Express stops at 34 ports, providing “strong opportunities” to use future infrastructure for green energy, with several ports planning to expand shore power connectivity.
Norway’s strong research and maritime industry and political willingness to support green shipping are positive factors that make the Norwegian coast a perfect fit for this type of initiative, according to the company.
Hurtigruten Norway chief executive Hedda Felin said: “We have built our last fossil-fuelled ship for the Norwegian Coastal Express.
“When we sail the coastal route for the next 100 years, it will be emission-free, making the world’s most beautiful voyage even more spectacular.”
SINTEF ocean market director Trond Johnsen added: “The first phase of the project has already been kicked-off and consists of a feasibility study, looking at technological and operational solutions for zero emission Hurtigruten Coastal Express ships on the Norwegian coast.”
Hurtigruten Group chief executive Daniel Skjeldam said: “We are excited to announce our most ambitious sustainability initiative to date; creating solutions for zero-emission passenger ships using the Norwegian coast as the ideal case.
“Our ambition is to sail an emission-free Hurtigruten Norwegian Coastal Express ship by 2030.
“We as a group have ships sailing all over the world, and we see that the Norwegian coast is an ideal location for this kind of game changing project, where we can benefit from the innovative Norwegian expertise in green shipping.”