Svitzer And Höegh Autoliners Partner For First EcoTow Solution In Australia

Svitzer, a leading towage service provider, and Höegh Autoliners, a global leader in Roll-on, Roll-off (RoRo) shipping, have collaborated to introduce EcoTow, a revolutionary low-carbon towage solution in Australia. This partnership debuted during the maiden voyage of the Höegh Aurora, the world’s most environmentally friendly car-carrier vessel class.

EcoTow: Redefining Sustainable Towage

• Carbon Neutral Towage: EcoTow achieves near 100% reduction in CO₂ emissions through carbon insetting, leveraging biofuel-powered tugboats.
• Certification and Assurance: Neutralization is verified by external auditors to ensure credibility.
• Strategic Impact: Towage, a major carbon emitter in port operations, is significantly decarbonized with EcoTow, aligning with Australia’s green maritime goals.

Höegh Aurora: Leading Maritime Decarbonization

• Emission Reductions: Cuts per-car carbon emissions by 58% compared to industry standards.
• Future-Ready Design:
  • Multi-fuel capability, including readiness for ammonia, a potential net-zero fuel.
  • Enhanced infrastructure for transporting electric vehicles on all 14 decks.
  • Solar panels and electric shore power for emissions-free port operations.
• Maiden Voyage: Completed in December 2024, visiting Fremantle, Melbourne, Port Kembla, and Brisbane, showcasing the vessel’s sustainability credentials.

Next Steps in Towage Innovation

• Battery Electric-Methanol Hybrid Tug: Svitzer’s upcoming TRAnsverse tug will operate carbon-neutrally, supporting Green Port and Green Shipping Corridor initiatives.

Leadership Perspectives

Sebjørn Dahl, Chief Operations Officer, Höegh Autoliners:

“Our 2040 net-zero ambition is strengthened by the EcoTow agreement, setting a benchmark for sustainable towage services and further reducing our customers’ carbon footprint.”

Videlina Georgieva, Managing Director, Svitzer Australia:

“This partnership demonstrates the maritime’s vital role in achieving a net-zero future. We look forward to advancing decarbonization through innovative solutions like EcoTow.”

Key Goals

• Svitzer aims for fully carbon-neutral operations by 2040 and a 50% reduction in carbon intensity by 2030.
• Höegh Autoliners continues to champion sustainability, leveraging innovative technologies and strategic partnerships.

This collaboration represents a significant milestone in maritime decarbonization, paving the way for more sustainable port and shipping operations worldwide.