Gerdes Green receives German subsidy for hybrid B100 vessels under construction

In Germany, Gerdes Green received a subsidy from the German Government for the investment in sustainable innovations for a Damen Combi Freighter (CF) 3850 currently under construction, as well as for a second vessel. Damen, together with Gerdes Green and vessel charterer Cargill, has developed a tailored vessel, the CF 3850 Hybrid, with the aim of substantially reducing the environmental footprint of coaster vessel operations.

As a result of the subsidy award, Gerdes Green will invest in a number of options that will serve to further increase the efficiency of its new CF 3850 vessels. This involves the inclusion of a battery driven propulsion system. With this, the vessels will be able to sail short-term fully electrically without local emissions, for instance when approaching ports and when passing through populated areas, thereby ensuring clean air.

The vessels will also feature wind assisted propulsion in the form of foldable ventofoils from Econowind. This innovative wing-shaped device harnesses the wind to provide additional propulsion force, lowering dependence on the engine, thereby reducing emissions.

The vessels will also be able to sail on B100 biodiesel, significantly reducing CO2 emissions. Furthermore, they will include a 130kW shore connection, eliminating emissions when the vessels are docked.