Norwegian shipping company GC Rieber Shipping has unveiled plans to build a fully electric battery-powered bulk carrier. The project, developed in collaboration with GC Rieber Minerals and Franzefoss Minerals, is intended for coastal transport along Norway’s shoreline.
The initiative has secured a $9.5 million grant from Enova, a Norwegian government agency that promotes clean energy technologies. The vessel will be built through GC Rieber’s subsidiary, Polar Energy Shipco, and will be equipped with battery capacity exceeding 20 MWh and rotor sails to further enhance energy efficiency.
“This support from Enova allows us to accelerate the transition to zero-emission shipping,” said Einar Ytredal, CEO of GC Rieber Shipping. “Together with GC Rieber Minerals and Franzefoss Minerals, we are proud to lead the development of cleaner and more efficient maritime transport solutions.”
The vessel will be operated by K. Sætre & Sønner, a company with extensive experience in transporting bulk and general cargo across the North Sea.
In addition to the vessel itself, GC Rieber Minerals will receive support to develop a shore power charging station in Laksevågneset.
