AET looks to advance electrification with hybrid plug-in LSV retrofit

Seattle-based ship designer and marine engineering firm Glosten has been selected to support the retrofit of an AET Offshore lightering support vessel (LSV) into what is described as “the world’s longest-range hybrid-electric vessel”.

Glosten has been working with a modular marine battery developer and manufacturer of Fleetzero on the retrofit of the LSV, which is being outfitted with a plug-in hybrid-electric propulsion system and will transit primarily on battery power once the conversion is complete.

In March, AET Offshore, based in Galveston, Texas, announced it had signed an agreement with Fleetzero for the pilot project.

Under the agreement, one of AET’s LSVs will be retrofitted with a plug-in hybrid-electric system, allowing it to operate primarily on battery power. Expectations are this will result in reducing greenhouse gas emissions by about 82% when compared with conventional LSVs on a tank-to-wake basis. This is estimated to avoid 1,220 tonnes of greenhouse gases annually, significantly reducing fuel consumption and maintenance costs, while maintaining high safety standards.

At the time of the signing, MISC Group chief executive and president, Zahid Osman, called the partnership “a pivotal step in our decarbonisation journey and energy transition strategy.” The pilot project will support the feasibility and operational performance of hybrid plug-in technology across “AET’s and potentially MISC’s fleet” he said.

“This vessel will be a major milestone – not just for us, but for the entire industry,” said Fleetzero chief executive, Steven Henderson. “Partnering with Glosten allows us to showcase how our propulsion technology can enable economical, cleaner and more efficient operations, while pushing the boundaries of what’s possible in shipping.”

Glosten chief executive and president, Morgan Fanberg, called the project “a bold move toward the next generation of marine technology, and exactly the kind of advancement we’re proud to support.”

With the vessel design already underway, Fleetzero and Glosten will transition into detailed engineering in the coming months, with construction expected to begin in mid-2026.

AET Offshore’s LSVs perform ship-to-ship cargo transfers in the US Gulf.