Svitzer, a global leader in towage services, has entered into a contract with the Turkish shipyard Uzmar to construct the world’s first battery-methanol-powered tug. Based on Svitzer’s TRAnsverse tug design, this innovative vessel will feature a 6MWh battery system, supported by dual-fuel methanol engines that provide back-up power and extend the tug’s operational range.
Focus on Sustainability and Efficiency
Designed for escort duty, the tug is expected to perform over 90% of its tasks using its battery-electric powertrain. It will also handle up to 25% of Svitzer’s towage operations in the Port of Gothenburg. Thanks to the advanced TRAnsverse design, this tug will operate with far greater efficiency than traditional internal combustion engine tugs.
Key Specifications and Capabilities
In collaboration with naval architect Robert Allan Ltd, the tug will be built with an overall length of 34.9 meters, offering substantial stability and capacity. The vessel will deliver a bollard pull ahead of 85 tonnes and will employ escort steering and braking forces rated at 150 and 200 tonnes, respectively, when measured at 10 knots. With a gross tonnage of approximately 806 tonnes and powered by a 6MWh battery system, the tug will be capable of reaching speeds of up to 14 knots.
Port of Gothenburg as a Strategic Location
The decision to integrate battery power with methanol engines stems from Svitzer’s commitment to adopting alternative energy solutions that ensure safe, efficient, and reliable operations. The Port of Gothenburg, with its robust shore power charging infrastructure and methanol bunkering capabilities, was deemed the ideal location for the tug’s operation, aligning perfectly with the port’s goal to become the world’s most sustainable.
Svitzer’s Commitment to Fleet Decarbonisation
Kasper Nilaus , CEO of Svitzer, highlighted the growing role of battery technology in achieving the company’s sustainability goals. He emphasized that the battery-methanol tug offers a new approach to reducing emissions, while acknowledging that no single solution will meet all decarbonization needs. By integrating this advanced technology, Svitzer continues to innovate towards fleet-wide decarbonization, ensuring safe and sustainable marine services across the global ports it serves.
Collaborative Efforts for Green Maritime Solutions
Gareth Prowse, Head of Decarbonisation at Svitzer, expressed pride in the company’s collaboration with Uzmar Shipyard and other technology partners. He underscored that this project represents a significant milestone in Svitzer’s decarbonization journey, enabling the company to deliver towage services with greatly reduced emissions, without compromising on safety or operational standards.
A. Noyan Altug, CEO of Uzmar, praised the close partnership between Uzmar and Svitzer in planning and developing this pioneering tug. He emphasized Uzmar’s commitment to reducing carbon emissions in the maritime sector and aligning with Svitzer’s ambitious decarbonization strategy. According to Altug, this project not only involves building an advanced tug but also shaping the future of green maritime operations.
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Source: Svitzer
