Stillstrom and Port of Roenne have collaborated on a study exploring the integration of offshore wind energy with maritime electrification. The initiative aims to use Energy Island Bornholm as a model for such integration.
The study, Energy Island Bornholm Powering Maritime Electrification, investigates how renewable power and future grid capacity can support electric ferry and cargo vessel charging solutions. The goal is to encourage shipowners to invest in battery-powered fleets and promote European transport decarbonization beyond road electrification, as stated by Stillstrom.
The white paper, to be released in Q1 2026, will offer a scalable roadmap for ports and offshore hubs preparing for maritime electrification advancements.
Energy Island Bornholm is advancing with transmission infrastructure procurement, while the auction for 3 GW of offshore wind capacity awaits the Danish government’s decision. The project includes two offshore wind farm sites, an HVDC converter station on Bornholm, and cables connecting to Zealand.
Stillstrom’s Senior Regulatory Manager, Sune Strøm, sees Energy Island Bornholm as a key to demonstrating offshore wind energy’s role in vessel charging in Europe’s busy shipping lanes.
“Maritime electrification is the next step in Europe’s green transition. Shipowners need charging infrastructure in place ahead of demand – both offshore and in ports,” stated Sune Strøm.
Conventional cargo vessels around Bornholm use significant fossil fuel annually. Stillstrom believes that as battery technology advances, battery-driven vessels will become more viable, requiring about 17 TWh of electricity to replace 3 million MT of marine gas oil, potentially saving EUR 2 billion annually in oil imports.
Port of Roenne contributes insights into required infrastructure for maritime electrification, including ferry charging and clean shore power for cruise vessels and offshore charging in the Baltic Sea.
“Energy Island Bornholm helps us understand future maritime energy needs. We aim to share operational insights and explore practical charging scenarios. Our Baltic Sea location positions us well to advance discussions on supporting this transition,” said Jeppe La Cour, CCO of Port of Roenne.
Original Story at www.offshorewind.biz