ABB has secured a contract to deliver an integrated propulsion system and advanced vessel control technology for the first electric-powered tug in the US
It will supply an end-to-end electric propulsion system and wheelhouse technology to Crowley’s pioneering eWolf tugboat, being built to assist ships in the Port of San Diego, California
Alabama-based shipbuilder Master Boat Builders is constructing this 25-m tug for delivery mid-2023. Once complete, this will be the first all-electric, battery-powered harbour tug built and operated in the US.
It could be the third of its kind to enter operations worldwide, after Gisas Power already operating in Turkey and Sparky, due to enter service in New Zealand.
ABB is providing a 6-MWh energy storage system (ESS) comprising lithium-ion batteries, allowing Crowley’s eWolf tug to achieve 70 tonnes of bollard pull with no emissions.
Batteries provide power to the propulsion system almost instantaneously, for efficient ship-assist operations and harbour escort services. ABB said the batteries would enable eWolf to complete a full day of typical work before there is a need to charge.
The new vessel will embody Crowley’s commitment to sustainable shipping solutions going forward, said the US operator’s director for business development of ship assistance and offshore services Porter Sesnon.
“eWolf’s innovative propulsion system and advanced control technology will provide a sustainable ship-assist solution with increased safety and capabilities,” said Mr Sesnon. “We look forward to working with ABB and Master Boat Builders to deliver this ground-breaking, ship-assist tug and to provide customers in San Diego with a zero-emissions, high-performing vessel.”
ABB will also supply its Ability Marine Pilot solutions to enhance crew safety and reduce workload. 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.
“We are pioneering the adoption of electric, digital and connected technologies for greater sustainability in the Americas and globally,” said ABB Marine & Ports senior account manager for commercial vessels David Lee. “We are helping shipowners deploy the automated systems that advance maritime safety.”
For eWolf, ABB will also supply an Onboard DC Grid power distribution system to integrate the ESS for zero-emissions operations and 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.
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