Norwegian classification society DNV has granted type approval to Corvus Energy’s Blue Whale NxtGen Energy battery system in both air-cooled and liquid-cooled configurations.
The approval verifies that the marine energy storage system meets DNV requirements for safety, quality and performance. Corvus Energy, Bergen, Norway, said the certification supports use of the system aboard electric and hybrid vessels.
Blue Whale NxtGen Energy uses lithium iron phosphate, or LFP, battery chemistry and a rack-free modular architecture designed for large-capacity installations. Corvus is targeting applications including ferries, RoPax vessels, cruise ships and offshore vessels, as well as other ships requiring extended electric operation.
The system can also be scaled for smaller hybrid installations.
Corvus said vessel battery systems are increasing in size as owners seek longer electric range and more fully electric operation. The company attributed that trend in part to rising fuel costs and stricter emissions regulations, which it said are strengthening the business case for electrification.
“We see a clear trend towards larger battery installations, as the economics of electrification improve and vessels need longer electric range and more operational flexibility,” said Thor Humerfelt, head of product innovation at Corvus Energy.
The modular design is intended to improve use of battery-room space and simplify installation of multi-megawatt-hour energy storage systems, according to the company.
Corvus said it has already secured more than 100 MWh in confirmed orders for the Blue Whale NxtGen Energy system.
The company has supplied battery systems for more than 1,350 maritime projects worldwide.
