Corvus Energy has been awarded a contract to deliver energy storage systems (ESS) for two new river cruise vessels being built for Scylla Shipping, the Swiss river cruise operator. The two vessels — Riviera Reflection and Harmonie — will be equipped with Corvus Energy’s Orca ESS, bringing the total number of Scylla Shipping vessels fitted with Corvus battery systems to 15.

The contract was signed on 18 June during the Advanced Maritime Technology exhibition in Amsterdam.

Corvus Energy notes that the battery hybrid propulsion systems will allow the vessels to enter and moor in ports emission-free for shorter periods, while also supporting performance during lock operations and canal transits. The batteries will also enable peak shaving, allowing hotel load and bow-thruster operations to be supported by a single generator — a configuration that, the company says, reduces engine starts and stops, resulting in less wear, fewer operating hours and lower fuel consumption.

The Orca system is fully ES-TRIN approved, meaning it complies with the European standard for technical requirements for inland navigation vessels, certifying that the system meets the safety, design and performance criteria required for operation on Europe’s inland waterways.

Koen Boerdijk, VP Sales Benelux and UK at Corvus Energy, commented: “There is enormous potential for reducing emissions from inland waterway transport, and Scylla Shipping is clearly leading the way. We are very proud to once again be chosen as their battery supplier. These new orders not only confirm the strong and sustainable cooperation between our companies, but also underline the proven efficiency of our battery systems in daily operation.”

Bart Vos, Technical Director Newbuild & Renovation at Scylla Shipping, remarked: “Through further electrification and the use of advanced battery systems, we are taking concrete steps toward emission-free sailing. The combination of generator optimisation and battery support makes our ships more efficient, more sustainable and ready for the future.”

Founded in 1973 and headquartered in Switzerland, Scylla Shipping operates a fleet of more than 45 vessels on major European rivers including the Rhine, Moselle, Danube, Seine, Rhône and Douro.

Corvus Energy, headquartered in Bergen, Norway, supplies energy storage and fuel cell systems for maritime, offshore and port applications. The company claims that more than 50% of the world’s vessels equipped with zero-emission technology rely on its systems, across a portfolio of more than 1,350 projects.