CLdN, a leading provider of integrated quay-to-quay and door-to-door logistics solutions has joined the Maritime Battery Forum community.

Founded in 1929, CLdN owns 30 ships and operates more than 200 sailings a week that provide shortsea connections between the European continent, the United Kingdom, Ireland, Iberia and Scandinavia. CLdN also owns and operates five ports in Belgium, The Netherlands and the UK. CLdN’s cargo and multimodal services have a Europe-wide reach using CLdN’s extensive network of ships, terminals, and equipment. CLdN employs 3,000 people and generates an annual turnover of approximately EUR 1 billion.

Batteries as an alternative/complement

CLdN has been investigating and implementing alternative fuels and propulsion systems for its vessels. They have also explored different approaches to shore-to-ship power in their port operations. With the current advancement in battery technology, thus making it a viable alternative / complement for both marine and port applications, CLdN continues to assess the possibilities for the future.

Commitment to Decarbonization

For the past decade, CLdN has been investing in new, larger vessels that use alternative fuels and propulsion systems to drive down CO2 emissions. The latest vessels under construction will be equipped with two conventional main engines as well as two large shaft generators of 6 MW each, which can be used for generating power or for electric propulsion. In full electric mode, the ships will be able to achieve a cruising speed of 16-17 kn. The vessels, which will be delivered in 2025, have a high degree of flexibility allowing for a seamless integration of new fuels, fuel cells and/or battery technology in the future. Compared with the company’s largest vessels currently in operation, the new ships will further reduce CO2 emissions while having the same cargo capacity.​

Expanding the world of Maritime Batteries

With almost 100 years of experience as an owner-operator in the short-sea freight shipping sector, CLdN’s expertise is vital to the implementation of battery technology in short sea operations. By collaborating with battery suppliers in the MBF community, specific and more suitable technologies can be developed to suit ship owner-operator needs. The MBF community provides a wealth of information and experience-based knowledge in battery technology, applications, safety, standardization, sustainability and even financing. CLdN hopes to use this as an opportunity to learn from industry experts in the forum about the battery technology landscape, battery safety and general learning about maritime battery use. This knowledge will be useful in informing their choices about possible future deployment of batteries in their vessels and port operations.