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The world's largest marine battery system
The China Zorrilla is able to sail 1,5 hours on battery only, enabling 100% emission free sailing. Photo: Buquebus
Corvus Energy is proud to announce that the battery energy storage system (ESS) powering the largest battery electric ferry has been successfully delivered, installed, commissioned, and has entered commercial operation in South America.
The vessel, China Zorrilla, built by Incat Tasmania for Buquebus, has arrived in Argentina and has been undergoing final testing before entering service between Argentina and Uruguay. Powered by more than 41 MWh of Corvus Energy battery systems, China Zorrilla features the largest battery installation ever deployed onboard a ship and represents a landmark achievement for maritime electrification.
FROM VISION TO REALITY
Three years ago, Corvus Energy announced its selection by Wärtsilä (see link )to supply the battery system for what was then envisioned as the world's largest fully electric high-speed Ro-Pax ferry. Now that vision is reality.
The successful commissioning of the energy storage system demonstrates how rapidly maritime electrification has advanced. What was once considered a groundbreaking concept has now entered daily commercial operation, carrying more than 2,100 passengers and over 225 vehicles across the Río de la Plata entirely on electric power.
"The launch of commercial operations for China Zorrilla is a milestone not only for Corvus Energy, but for the entire maritime industry," says Ole Jacob Irgens EVP and Head of Sales at Corvus Energy.
"This project proves that battery-electric propulsion is no longer limited to smaller ferries or short routes. We are now seeing large-scale, high-speed passenger vessels powered entirely by batteries. It demonstrates that the technology is ready and that maritime decarbonization is accelerating globally."
THE WORLD'S LARGEST MARINE BATTERY SYSTEM EVER INSTALLED
The Corvus Energy ESS installed onboard the China Zorrilla is approximately four times larger than any previous battery system deployed in commercial maritime service. The installation combines advanced battery technology and large-scale energy storage capability to support the demanding operational requirements of high-speed passenger transportation.
The project also marks another significant milestone for Corvus Energy's battery technology platform, which has been developed specifically for the maritime sector and refined through more than a decade of operational experience across over a thousand vessel installations worldwide.
"Every project teaches us something, but this vessel sets a new benchmark," Irgens explains
"Successfully commissioning a battery system of this scale demonstrates the maturity, safety, and reliability of modern marine battery technology. We are proud to see our systems powering what will become an iconic vessel in the transition to zero-emission transportation."
MAJOR STEP FOR MARITIME ELECTRIFICATION IN SOUTH AMERICA
As the first fully electric ship of its kind in South America, China Zorrilla represents a major step forward for regional maritime decarbonization.
The entry into service of the vessel highlights how battery-electric shipping is becoming a global trend, extending well beyond early adopter markets in Northern Europe.
Corvus Energy has simultaneously strengthened its regional support capabilities to ensure long-term operational success for customers in South America through local service partnerships, technical expertise, and lifecycle support capabilities.
A BLUEPRINT FOR FUTURE VESSELS
For Corvus Energy, the significance of China Zorrilla extends beyond a single vessel. The project provides a blueprint for future large-scale electric ferries, cruise vessels, offshore vessels, and other energy-intensive maritime applications.
The successful delivery, commissioning, and operation of the world's largest battery-electric ship demonstrate that electrification can now be applied to vessel classes that were previously considered beyond the reach of battery technology.
In commercial service, the vessel serves as a powerful example of how innovative ship design, advanced battery technology, and industry collaboration accelerates the maritime industry's journey toward a zero-emission future.
About Corvus Energy
- Headquartered in Norway, Corvus Energy is the world's leading provider of zero-emission energy solutions for the maritime industry.
- The company offers a comprehensive portfolio of energy storage systems suitable for nearly every vessel type, helping owners reduce emissions, improve operational efficiency, and ensure safe and reliable operations.
- Corvus Energy's solutions combine advanced battery technology, digital services, battery passport capabilities, cybersecurity, and global service support throughout the vessel lifecycle.
- With more than 1,400 projects delivered worldwide, Corvus Energy has established itself as a trusted partner in maritime decarbonization.
- Today, more than 50% of the world's vessels equipped with zero-emission technology are powered by Corvus Energy systems.