According to the Daily Telegraph, P&O has not consulted with authorities in Dover or Calais over charging points. Moreover, it adds that Dover does not currently have the network capacity to recharge the ferry batteries and meet its other electricity needs.
However, the newspaper also writes that sources close to P&O insisted that it had “engaged at length with both ports about the electricity requirements for our new ships”.
👀 NEW SHIP FIRST LOOK INSIDE 👀 We’re excited to share a peek of the inside of our newest ship arriving on our Dover to Calais route this spring!
P&O Pioneer is the first of two new double ended hybrid ferries, delivering a 40% reduction in emissions. https://t.co/O4rE5Akj9V pic.twitter.com/bGJ5hnLlnM
— P&O Ferries (@POferries) February 15, 2023
Battery provider ABB says that when in hybrid mode, the electric power on the new ferries can cut fuel consumption on P&O Ferries’ Dover-Calais route by 40%.
In its press release concerning its role in the construction of the two P&O hybrid vessels, ABB also said its batteries would provide full power for harbor maneuvering and stay in port and would prepare the vessels for a zero-emission future once more electric shore charging stations are available.
Say hello to our brand new ship, the P&O Pioneer.🛳️
Taking over 4 years from design to reality, we are delighted to announce that we will soon welcome the most sustainable ferry ever to sail between Dover and Calais.
Coming soon! Learn more > https://t.co/jtQ1i7BpiR pic.twitter.com/DTvBIpsxJi
— P&O Ferries (@POferries) February 8, 2023
However, if the report from the Daily Telegraph is anything to go by, it could be a long time before those emission cutting benefits will come into play on the Dover-Calais route.
The new ferries, named P&O Liberte and P&O Pioneer, are due to begin operations on the Dover-Calais route this spring.
The 230.5m long Pioneer will be the world’s largest double-ended ferry at the time of entering service, says P&O. The vessel features floor to ceiling windows and a pet lounge according to P&O’s website.
Photo © Copyright Gareth James and licensed for reuse under this Creative Commons Licence