Maritime energy storage systems expand with new hybrid vessel installations

The maritime industry is seeing increased adoption of hybrid propulsion systems through new battery installations for specialized vessels.

Lehmann Marine has completed its first deployment in China, installing its modular CUBE battery system aboard the AESEN 116H. Built by Cheoy Lee Shipyards, this 42-meter hybrid fast crew boat is operated by Singapore-based AESEN. The system is designed for peak shaving and zero-emission harbor maneuvers, offering an estimated 30-40% fuel saving compared to conventional vessels. The modular architecture allows for on-board component replacement to avoid drydock delays.

Separately, Siemens Energy has contracted EST-Floattech to supply the Octopus High Energy battery system for the CSOV Plus, a Commissioning Service Operation Vessel being built by Marco Polo Marine in Indonesia. Designed by Norway-based Salt Ship Design, the vessel will support offshore wind and oil and gas operations. The current battery capacity exceeds 1 MWh, with a modular design that allows for future upgrades up to 20 MWh to enable fully electric sailing. The vessel is slated for delivery in the second quarter of 2028 for operator PKR Offshore.