DFDS (Det Forenede Dampskibs-Selskab) announced a substantial €1 billion investment in battery electric vessels, marking its unwavering commitment to decarbonising maritime traffic in the English Channel.
As informed, the first two electric vessels will be in operation by 2030, while the rest is expected to follow before 2035.
This is an important step towards decarbonising cross-Channel transport. Because of the relatively short distance between the UK and France, the routes are optimal for electric ferry transport. The electrification of our cross-Channel fleet will be an important step towards meeting our climate targets and, with this investment, we are accelerating the transition to a greener future for the shipping industry.
…says Torben Carlsen, CEO of DFDS.
DFDS, along with the Port of Dover, Port of Boulogne Calais, and Port of Dunkirk, has pledged to collaborate in reducing carbon emissions from maritime traffic in the Straits of Dover. This commitment was formalized through a Memorandum of Understanding signed on March 15, 2023, in efforts to address sustainability in one of the world’s busiest shipping routes that connects major economies and facilitates significant trade between the EU and the UK.
In 2023, DFDS launched a new strategy – Moving Together Towards 2030 – which reconfirms the ambition to become a net-zero company by 2050 and to have six green ferries in service by the end of 2030, two of which will be electric ships for the Channel.
In France, DFDS has 5 vessels under French flag and employs 1,200 people, including 800 French seafarers.
In the UK, DFDS has a long history of working with authorities and partners, and fully supports initiatives to accelerate the decarbonisation of the UK’s ports and shipping sector.