Offshore support vessel owner Vallianz Holdings has signed a binding memorandum of understanding (MOU) with SeaTech Solutions International to develop harbour tugs powered by batteries for owners looking to cut their emissions
This two-year agreement will use SeaTech’s EVT-60 design for an all-electric harbour tug to be built at Vallianz’s PT USP shipyard near Batam, Indonesia. Vallianz will begin preparation work for clients interested in constructing an electric tug (e-tug).
SeaTech’s EVT-60 design has an overall length of 26 m and beam of 12.8 m. It will be equipped with azimuth propulsors to provide a bollard pull of 60 tonnes with a service speed of 12 knots. These would be powered by high-capacity electric battery modules to provide enough power for an e-tug’s operational profile.
SeaTech will design this e-tug in accordance with ABS class rules with a new battery-powered concept.
“This strategic partnership marks Vallianz’s first step into the development of electric vessels,” said Vallianz executive vice chairman Darren Yeo, “which demonstrates our aim to be among the leaders recognised for actively reducing carbon emissions in the marine industry.”
An e-tug will help vessel owners and port authorities to reduce their emissions and help IMO meet its targets to reduce the shipping industry’s carbon footprint over the coming decades.
“With the rise in demand for decarbonisation, coupled with the evolving digitalised efficiency management systems for vessels, we foresee increasing requirements for electric vessels in the near future,” said Mr Yeo.
EVT-60 design will follow ABS’ Guide for Use of Lithium Batteries in the Marine and Offshore Industries and Guide for Hybrid Electric Power Systems for Marine and Offshore Applications.
“Technology for electric vessels is available, and the real challenge is to develop a cost-effective total logistics solution,” said SeaTech director Govinder Chopra. “We target a capital expenditure increase of only 20% with lower lifecycle costs for this electric tug.”
Power delivery from the battery pack can be optimised according to the e-tug’s real-time operational requirements.
“The electric tug lends itself to digitalisation and future autonomous operations. We see this as the future of harbour tugs,” said Mr Chopra.
Optimising power will result in a more flexible and efficient operation as the e-tug will have the ability to provide a range of bollard pulls to meet different operational requirements.
“Hybrid electric power systems offer the opportunity to improve safety, reliability, operational efficiency,” said ABS vice president of technology Gareth Burton, “and reduce the fuel consumption, environmental footprint and equipment maintenance when compared to traditional power systems.”
ABS will continue to support this e-tug, and other design projects through “developing guidance that advances safer integration of hybrid power systems into marine and offshore assets,” said Mr Burton.
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