Scandlines: Shore Power Connection in Puttgarden Now Operational

Sustainable ferry operations on the Fehmarn Belt continue to expand

Scandlines has reached another important milestone on its journey towards more sustainable ferry operations: the new shore power connection at the Port of Puttgarden is now fully operational. This enables the company’s ferries to be supplied with electricity from the local grid while alongside in both Puttgarden (Germany) and Rødby (Denmark).

The centrepiece of this development is The Baltic Whale, Scandlines’ modern freight ferry operating on the Puttgarden – Rødby route since March. With shore power available at both ports, the vessel can now be fully recharged within just 12 to 15 minutes during each port call. This allows Scandlines to operate a reliable two-hour departure schedule, six days a week, around the clock.

The remaining vessels on the route are also set to benefit from the new infrastructure. Scandlines plans to gradually convert all four passenger ferries on the Puttgarden – Rødby route into plug-in hybrid vessels. The first two conversions are scheduled for this year, with the company expecting that around 80% of each ferry’s energy consumption will eventually be covered by shore power.

Since 2013, Scandlines has invested approximately €430 million in emission-reducing technologies, including hybrid ferries, rotor sails, energy-efficient propellers and modern charging infrastructure. The shore power project in Puttgarden, including the expansion of the local power grid, was co-financed by the European Union through the Connecting Europe Facility (CEF).

Benefits for accompanied freight transport

The Puttgarden – Rødby route is one of the most important ferry links between Germany and Scandinavia and plays a key role in accompanied freight transport. The new charging infrastructure enables more efficient ferry operations while maintaining the current sailing times and frequent departures. For hauliers and logistics companies, this means reliable and well-planned crossings on one of Europe’s most important north-south transport corridors – now with an even more sustainable operation.

At Transcamion, you can book your Scandlines ferry crossings as well as many other European ferry routes quickly and easily. Our experienced team will be happy to help you find the best ferry solution for your transport requirements.