Transnet Tugs Turn to Cleaner Fuels

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  • TNPA Launches Green Fuel Retrofit Pilot for Diesel Tugboat Fleet.
  • South Africa’s TNPA Explores Cleaner Fuels for Tugboat Operations.
  • Request for Information Issued for TNPA Tugboat Green Fuel Pilot.

The Transnet National Ports Authority has published a Request for Information to conduct a pilot project of converting the current diesel-powered tug boats into greener, low-carbon fuelled vessels. This is a strategic effort in support of South Africa’s shift towards a low-carbon economy through the inclusion of cleaner and renewable options of fuel, reports Freight News.

Pilot Project for Green Fuel Retrofits

We are retrofitting diesel tugboats that already exist and making them operate on alternative fuel-LNG, biodiesel, hydrogen, and methanol. That will support improvement in operational performance with reduced environmental impact.

“Upon the success of the retrofitting pilot phase, the tugboats will be restored to optimal operational performance and efficiency, enabling them to service the ports using improved fuel and sustainable environmental impact.”

RFI Scope and Requirements for Interested Parties

RFI invites proposals from interested parties to do a technical evaluation of the older diesel tugboats with regard to the condition of the current fleet, diesel engine analysis, and inspection of mechanical and structural compartments for modification/new component requirements, that may be needed for the fuel switch.

Energy Mix Initiatives Towards a Sustainable Future

Phyllis Difeto, Acting Chief Executive of TNPA, highlighted the project as part of the authority’s larger energy mix initiatives. It aimed at fostering an environmentally sustainable port system.

“The plans to retrofit TNPA’s tugboat fleet with low- to no-carbon fuel is a significant step towards decarbonising shipping and reducing the carbon footprint of our marine craft,” said Difeto.

This initiative marks an important advancement in the decarbonization of South Africa’s maritime sector. It aligns TNPA’s operations with global sustainability goals.

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Source: Freight News