Use of supercapacitors for inland ferries in Germany based on empiric resistance calculations

Abstract

To achieve the CO2 reduction target, it is necessary to electrify the entire mobility sector, including inland waterway transport. For this reason, electrical ferries are being deployed around the world to decarbonize maritime transport. With their high energy density, lithium-based batteries are the dominant electrical energy storage (ESS). However, due to their inherent technological disadvantages with a comparatively slow charging rate and limited cycle life, their areas of application are limited. Therefore, the project aims to evaluate the potential of supercapacitors in ferries. Supercapacitors offer a high-power density with a long cycle life, making them a promising technology for ferries with a short charge time, high load power peaks or as part of a hybrid ESS during the acceleration phases of the ferry crossing. An empiric simulation of the German inland fleet is conducted to validate the application of supercapacitors.