AYK Energy to Supply Marine Battery Systems for Grimaldi Group’s Next Generation RoPax Fleet

AYK Energy has secured a contract to supply marine battery systems for Grimaldi Group’s new fleet of nine next-generation RoPax vessels, supporting the integration of battery technology into ships designed to operate with lower emissions and improved energy efficiency.

Under the agreement, the battery manufacturer will provide its 2,073 kWh OrionAN marine battery system for each vessel, bringing the combined battery capacity across the fleet to 18,657 kWh.

The vessels are currently under construction at China Merchants Jinling Shipyard (Weihai) and are scheduled for delivery between 2028 and 2030.

New RoPax Fleet to Feature Methanol-Capable Propulsion

The nine vessels form part of Grimaldi Group’s fleet renewal programme aimed at improving operational efficiency while reducing environmental impact.

Six vessels will operate in the Mediterranean under the Grimaldi Lines and Minoan Lines brands, while the remaining three will serve Finnlines routes in the Baltic Sea.

The RoPax vessels are designed to transport both passengers and rolling cargo and will feature multi-fuel engines capable of operating on methanol, alongside a range of energy-efficiency technologies.

These include shore power connectivity, optimised hull and propeller designs, and waste heat recovery systems intended to reduce fuel consumption and emissions during operations.

Battery Systems to Improve Energy Efficiency

AYK Energy’s OrionAN battery systems will support onboard energy management and contribute to improved operational efficiency. The battery platform received DNV Type Approval last year, confirming compliance with maritime safety and performance standards.

The project reflects growing adoption of battery technology alongside alternative fuels such as methanol, with hybrid energy systems increasingly being incorporated into new vessel designs to reduce emissions and improve fuel efficiency.

Chris Kruger, Founder of AYK Energy, said: “With high profile deals with major players in the maritime world like Grimaldi AYK continues to demonstrate how battery technology is evolving and becoming more powerful, more advanced and more competitive.

“AYK’s battery solutions help shipping operators like Grimaldi improve efficiency, reduce emissions, and accelerate the transition toward more sustainable maritime transport.

“We all want to see fewer emissions and green shipping. But batteries will only be part of the decarbonization agenda if ship owners see the return on investment. There has to be a compelling business case.

“And that’s what the range of batteries that AYK can now offer is all about – the mass adoption of batteries that can pay for themselves within a matter of years.”

The order adds to the growing number of commercial vessel projects combining battery technology with alternative fuel propulsion as shipowners seek to meet increasingly stringent environmental regulations and improve vessel efficiency.