The contract also includes an option for a two-year extension. The express boat contract has clear requirements related to a CO2 cut of at least 52 percent. Norled wants to introduce a completely new charging technology that enables major emission cuts on these connections.
“This is fantastic news for Norled. We look forward to continued cooperation with Skyss to deliver good and sustainable travel experiences in Sogn og Fjordane,” says Heidi Wolden, CEO of Norled.
Norled has a long tradition of investing in new technology and sustainable solutions. In 2015, the company introduced the world’s first electric ferry, and we are now introducing the world’s first ferry powered by liquid hydrogen. Both solutions reduce CO2 emissions considerably.
“We are incredibly pleased that Skyss and Sogn og Fjordane County Council are investing so heavily in environmentally friendly express boats. This could be the start of the electrification of the Norwegian express boat fleet,” says Heidi Wolden.
The contract includes an option for Sogn og Fjordane County Council to continue to choose fossil fuels for up to six of the first years. The matter will be considered by the county committee in November.
“Norled hopes and believes the choice falls on the most environmentally friendly solution. Together with a number of partners, Norled has developed a completely new battery concept for express boats that will enable fast and efficient charging of express boats. We believe this will revolutionize the possibility for efficient electric operation of express boats,” says Wolden.
The start of operations on the contract is no later than May 1, 2024, but the possibility of starting from November 1, 2023. Norled will work closely with Florø Skyssbåt on operations.
