Wattlab powers world’s largest battery bulk carrier

Once work is complete, the BRF Froan will become the world’s largest battery-powered bulk carrier. Scheduled for delivery in Q2 2026, the vessel will transport marble between Brønnøy, Visnes and Elnesvågen, Norway.

The agreement follows Wattlab’s successful delivery of its first full-scale seagoing project last week.

“It is an honour that with our second seagoing project, we, as a scale-up, can be a part of such an innovative vessel as the BRF Froan,” said Bo Salet, co-founder and chief executive of Wattlab.

“In addition, this proves that both in the Netherlands and internationally there is a real demand for solar energy in shipping. It also shows that our tested and proven technology is ready to be deployed at scale.”

The vessel is currently under construction and will sail to Norway next summer. During a stop-over in Flushing, the Netherlands, Wattlab will install 96 Solar Flatracks in a single day. “For shipowners, time is money,” said Salet. “Fast installation is crucial. Thanks to the smart design installing the system is simple, fast and flexible.”

In addition to Wattlab’s solar technology, BRF Froan will feature two rotor sails and a 23.5 MWh battery package, enabling fully zero-emission operations.