Hybrid Propulsion
30 per cent reduction in fuel consumption: The 'Ulstein hybrid propulsion concept' combines higher efficiency and better performance at high loads and excellent fuel consumption at low loads. Hybrid propulsion is the perfect match for the operational profile of anchor handling tug supply/offshore construction vessels.
The Green Operations initiative has taken the potential of the rather complex hybrid propulsion concept to completely new levels of performance, and was one of the nominees for the Green Ship Technology Award 2011. The Olympic Zeus and sister vessel Olympic Hera of the A122 design from Ulstein have significantly reduced fuel oil consumption and carbon footprint than any anchor handling tug supply (AHTS)/offshore construction vessels before them. Combining the medium-sized diesel-mechanical and diesel-electric systems into one large hybrid propulsion system proves to both take up less space and be less expensive than a large diesel-electric system. Compared to similar-sized vessels, fuel savings of up to 70% have been recorded, depending on the mode of operation.
"After a number of jobs, we've proven to the market that we in average can run the ship on 70% of the fuel of what a conventional diesel anchor handler can, and that we can save up to 70% in some modes compared to a conventional ship", says Olympic Shipping senior vice president Runar Stave.
The feedback from clients so far has been nothing short of amazing - in that, clients are literally amazed that the vessels can do what they do:
"They didn't think it was possible to work with such low power consumption" Captain of the Olympic Zeus
