Marine battery manufacturer AYK Energy and Dutch maritime system integrator Gebhard Electro are strengthening their collaboration by striking a new deal to electrify two workboats.
Electrifying the UK Dredging Fleet
The first project is 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 combines diesel-electric propulsion with an integrated Energy Storage System (ESS). AYK will supply a 318kWh liquid-cooled Polaris battery system for the new Trailing Suction Hopper Dredger, while Gebhard Electro is responsible for the complete electrical installation and system integration. It will be one of the first liquid-cooled Polaris systems AYK has installed since receiving DNV type approval, reinforcing its compliance with stringent maritime safety and performance standards.
Fully Electric Conversion for the Port of Rotterdam
The second project involves the conversion of the Port of Rotterdam’s patrol vessel RPA 8 from hybrid to fully electric propulsion. AYK Energy will provide the 1640kWh PiscesA+ battery system, with Gebhard Electro responsible for integrating the electrical energy solution for the retrofit. The conversion of RPA 8 will mark a significant milestone in the port’s drive toward an emission-free operations fleet.
Chris Kruger, Founder of AYK Energy, 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.”
Compelling Business Case for Marine Battery Power
Chris Kruger added that demand for battery technology in the workboat sector is accelerating:
“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.”
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.”
Proven Partnership in Maritime System Integration
The latest projects further strengthen the long-standing collaboration between AYK Energy and Gebhard Electro. Previous joint projects include the fully electric maintenance vessel VOLTA for Martens en Van Oord and the hybrid tug VB KRACHT for Boluda Towage. AYK supplied a 2.2MWh Aries+S battery system for VOLTA, which is deployed in inland waters. It also delivered an 82kWh Orion battery system for the retrofitted hybrid tug VB KRACHT.
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. The company delivers complete electrical solutions for newbuilds, refits and complex retrofit projects.
About AYK Energy
AYK was founded in 2018 by Chris Kruger with the goal of producing a low-cost battery that offered superior performance and safety exceeding class and industry standards. Already a pioneer in the marine battery sector, having developed the very first marine type approved battery more than a decade ago, Chris and his team have continued to drive development and safety in the marine battery industry, drawing on over 15 years’ industry experience. Visit www.aykenergy.com.
