Why are batteries important in offshore operations?

Batteries play an indispensable role in your offshore operations, either as a back-up to ensure the continuity of your key systems in the event of a mains failure, or even as a main source of power. Clearly, this in turn calls for the continuous integrity of your batteries.

What are the requirements for a battery powered vessel?

For battery powered vessels, the battery system shall have sufficient useable energy for safe return to port also if one battery system fails. Battery space shall be accessible for replacement of parts of the system. Battery spaces shall provide protection against external hazards (e.g. fire, mechanical impact).

Are lithium batteries allowed on a DNV GL vessel?

DNV Class published tentative rules for using Lithium batteries on-board vessels in 2012. These rules were updated and published in October 2015 under the common rule set of DNV GL. The requirements are function-based and applicable for all DNV GL classed vessels having batteries larger than 50 kWh.

Can a battery space be placed forward of a bulkhead?

The location of the battery space on board the vessel has to be carefully considered in order to reduce the risk of external events posing a danger to the battery system. The class rules (ch. 4.3) states that the battery space cannot be placed forward of the forward collision bulkhead.