AYK Energy signs two workboat electrification deals with Gebhard Electro

Marine battery manufacturer AYK Energy and Dutch maritime system integrator Gebhard Electro have agreed on two new projects involving the electrification of workboats, extending their collaboration on marine energy storage and propulsion systems.

The first project involves the construction of a new Trailing Suction Hopper Dredger (TSHD1000) at Damen Shipyards in the Netherlands for UK Dredging, part of Associated British Ports.

The vessel will use diesel-electric propulsion alongside an integrated Energy Storage System (ESS). AYK Energy will supply a 318kWh liquid-cooled Polaris battery system, while Gebhard Electro will handle the electrical installation and system integration.

The project will also mark one of AYK Energy’s first installations of its liquid-cooled Polaris battery following DNV type approval.

The second project involves converting the Port of Rotterdam’s patrol vessel RPA 8 from hybrid to fully electric propulsion. AYK Energy will provide a 1,640kWh PiscesA+ battery system, with Gebhard Electro responsible for integrating the electrical energy solution as part of the retrofit.

The conversion is intended to support the Port of Rotterdam’s objective of developing an emission-free operations fleet.

AYK Energy founder Chris Kruger said: “Our partnership with Gebhard Electro continues to demonstrate how battery technology is becoming an increasingly important part of modern vessel design and retrofit projects. Together we are delivering practical solutions that improve efficiency, reduce emissions and support the maritime industry’s transition towards lower-carbon operations.”

Gebhard Electro Managing Director Gerard Kraaij said: “Our collaboration with AYK Energy is built on a shared commitment to delivering reliable and future-ready solutions for the maritime sector. Battery technology is a key component of vessel electrification, but its real value is achieved through effective system integration. We are pleased to continue working together on projects that help our customers operate more efficiently and sustainably.”

The two companies have previously worked together on the fully electric maintenance vessel VOLTA for Martens en Van Oord and the hybrid tug VB KRACHT for Boluda Towage.

For VOLTA, AYK Energy supplied a 2.2MWh Aries+S battery system for operation on inland waterways. For the retrofit of VB KRACHT, the company supplied an 82kWh Orion battery system.

Kruger said demand for marine battery technology in the workboat sector is increasing as operators assess electrification for inland and coastal vessels.

He said: “Workboat operators can see the value that battery power can deliver for inland waterways and coastal vessels – performance, cost, safety and the reduction of carbon emissions. The business case is compelling. The cost of batteries is reducing and the technology is evolving, delivering greater efficiencies. It is no longer just a green message. Our batteries are providing value and they pay for themselves within a matter of years. This is both the present and the future of marine propulsion.”

Headquartered in Oosterhout, the Netherlands, Gebhard Electro has more than 80 years of experience in electrical engineering, automation and system integration for the maritime industry. Its activities cover complete electrical solutions for newbuilds, refits and complex retrofit projects.