GC Rieber signs letter of intent for fully electric freight carrier

The vessel will incorporate the latest technology to deliver efficient and environmentally sustainable operations.

The company’s subsidiary Polar Energy Shipco has been awarded funding from Enova to support the project, which forms part of Norway’s wider drive towards zero-emission maritime transport. The development marks a notable milestone in the country’s efforts to decarbonise coastal logistics.

The newbuild will be developed in partnership with freight owners GC Rieber Minerals and Franzefoss Minerals, both of whom are seeking to reduce the carbon footprint of their supply chains. GC Rieber Shipping has also entered into a letter of intent with K. Sætre & Sønner, which will operate the vessel. The company specialises in the transport of bulk commodities and general cargo in the North Sea.

“The support from Enova enables us to accelerate the transition to zero-emission shipping,” said Einar Ytredal, chief executive of GC Rieber Shipping. “Together with GC Rieber Minerals and Franzefoss Minerals, we are proud to lead the way in developing cleaner, more efficient maritime transport solutions.”

Optimised for short-sea operations along the Norwegian coast, the vessel will feature advanced battery systems and shore power integration. Compared with conventionally powered tonnage, it is expected to deliver a significant reduction in greenhouse gas emissions as well as noise pollution.

GC Rieber Shipping has stated that the project will provide valuable operational and developmental experience with battery-electric systems, supporting its broader ambition to introduce zero-emission ships across multiple market segments.

“This project is a key enabler for us to deliver low-emission transport of salts and minerals,” said Per Gunnar Syrdalen, chief commercial officer at GC Rieber Minerals. “We are proud to be at the forefront of sustainable solutions that our customers and partners are demanding. A forward-leaning partnership between freight owners is essential to achieving net-zero maritime transport, and the involvement of our sister company has been a decisive factor in making this initiative possible.”

Ingrid Hynne Hoem, logistics manager at Franzefoss Minerals, added: “At Franzefoss Minerals, we are committed to reducing the environmental impact of our operations. Participating in this project allows us to take a concrete step towards more sustainable freight transport and is fully aligned with our long-term climate goals.”