German cruise leader AIDA Cruises received a gold award in the "Technology Leader" category at the 2024 ESG Shipping Awards International held in Athens, Greece.

This recognition celebrates their installation of the biggest battery energy storage system (BESS) ever deployed on a passenger ship – a whopping 10 megawatt-hours on the AIDAprima.

The ESG Shipping Awards recognise companies across the shipping industry for their commitment to sustainability and responsible practices. AIDA Cruises sees this award as both validation and motivation for their ongoing efforts to create a more sustainable maritime industry.

"We are honored to receive this prestigious ESG Shipping Award as a technology leader. The award is not just an affirmation but also a motivation to continue our efforts to actively contribute to a more sustainable maritime industry. At AIDA Cruises, we believe that technological innovations play an important role in reducing greenhouse gases. That's why we are investing in such lighthouse projects like the retrofit of the state-of-the-art battery technology on board AIDAprima.Our ambition is clear: net zero emission from our ship operations. Along that way we will continue to join forces with all those who share our goals and are actively supporting the climate goals of the EU, the IMO and the Paris Agreement with investment and innovation," says Felix Eichhorn, President of AIDA Cruises.

A Battery Powerhouse for a Greener Future

AIDAprima's battery system is a game-changer for the cruise industry, demonstrating their commitment to reducing greenhouse gas emissions. Installed in 2022 and rigorously tested throughout 2023, this lithium-ion behemoth provides power during various manoeuvres, including docking, casting off, and while in port. It even allows the ship to operate in zero-emission mode for limited periods.

The batteries recharge during operation at sea, storing excess energy for use during peak demand periods ("peak-shaving"), optimising engine operation for consistent power delivery. When docked, the system can be recharged using shore power technology.

This project involved close collaboration with Corvus Energy and the production of a staggering 1,760 individual battery modules.

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Source: AIDA Cruises