Molslinjen has ordered two battery-powered catamaran ferries to operate between Jutland and Zealand, aiming to significantly reduce CO2 emissions. The company announced the order in a press release, marking a major step towards electrifying the Kattegat crossing.

The new ferries will be constructed at an Australian shipyard, with the first expected to be ready by early 2028. Molslinjen is also exploring the possibility of having a third similar ferry built at another shipyard, potentially deploying it on the same route simultaneously.

According to Molslinjen CEO Kristian Durhuus, the project is substantial, requiring significant investment in land-based infrastructure and electricity storage systems in addition to the ferries themselves. The land-based infrastructure is projected to cost DKK 3.5 billion.

Each of the three ferries will measure 129 meters in length and have the capacity to carry 1,483 passengers and 500 cars. This makes them larger than the Express 5, which currently sails between Rønne and Ystad.

The electrification of the Kattegat connection is partly funded by a state green pool that supports such initiatives. The switch to electric ferries is projected to reduce CO2 emissions by 132,000 tons per year.