Corvus Energy has been selected to supply the energy storage system for Crowley Maritime’s all-electric tug eWolf
This is a subcontract from ABB Marine & Ports, which secured the contract to deliver an integrated propulsion system and advanced vessel control technology for the first electric-powered tug in the US.
Corvus will supply Orca Energy batteries with a full capacity of 6.2 MWh. Energy storage will become an essential component of the complete integrated electrical propulsion system as it will enable eWolf to complete a full day of towage work before needing to recharge.
Alabama-based shipbuilder Master Boat Builders is constructing this 25-m tug for delivery in mid-2023. eWolf will then support shipping activities in Port of San Diego in California.
ABB is supplying an Onboard DC Grid power distribution system to integrate Corus Orca Energy for zero-emissions operations and the mechanical L-drive thrusters.
The full scope of supply also includes propulsion motors, low-voltage switchboards, transformers and the ABB Ability remote diagnostics system for continuous equipment monitoring and predictive maintenance.
Corvus Energy USA president Sveinung Odegard expects more electric-vessel projects to follow in the wake of Crowley’s eWolf.
“We see increased interest among the tug industry for all-electric propulsion systems,” he said. “We believe this trend will continue globally due to the proximity to shore and opportunities to eliminate emissions within city limits and harbours. We participated in the first all-electric tug in Europe and are excited to be a part of the efforts by Crowley to build the very first one here in North America.”
For eWolf, ABB is also supplying its Ability Marine Pilot solutions to enhance crew safety and reduce workloads. This includes a vision product to improve situational awareness, with 360º visibility from the master station, and marine controls for manoeuvring support and future remote operations.
Corvus supplies energy storage systems for maritime, offshore, subsea and port applications. It has delivered batteries for more than 500 projects, totalling over 350 MWh and more than 3.5M operating hours.
Earlier this year, Corvus introduced an initiative with Toyota to develop hydrogen fuel cell technology for maritime applications.
Learn about the latest in clean propulsion technology at Riviera Maritime Media’s Maritime Hybrid, Electric & Hydrogen Fuel Cells Conference in Bergen, Norway, 18-20 October
© 2023 Riviera Maritime Media Ltd.