Svitzer, a global leader in towage and maritime solutions, recently announced the initiation of its project’s second phase. This project aims to create the world’s pioneering methanol hybrid fuel cell (MHFC) tug. Being a subsidiary of A.P. Moller-Maersk, Svitzer has a reputation for innovative maritime solutions. Undertaking technical feasibility studies for this type of vessel, Svitzer aims to complement the operational demands of a tug.
Collaborating with Robert Allan Ltd., a renowned company specializing in naval architecture, Svitzer embarks on the journey to design the first-ever MHFC tug. This upcoming phase will oversee the vessel’s design completion, considerations surrounding its construction, and necessary onboard equipment selection.
A Sustainable Solution on the Horizon
Powering the MHFC tug is an electrical propulsion system utilizing methanol fuel cells and batteries, implying more endurance and fewer operational limitations than a tug operating solely on batteries. This revolutionary tug will have round-the-clock methanol-powered generators for backup, eschewing the need for a secondary fuel.
According to Svitzer, the operation of the MHFC tug on green methanol has extraordinary environmental benefit implications. It could prevent approximately 1,300 tonnes of CO2 from being released into our atmosphere annually compared to its fossil fuel-powered counterparts.
A Collaborative Effort Toward Decarbonization
The MHFC tug’s design journey is shared between Svitzer and Robert Allan Ltd. They are pinning the design project on Svitzer’s TRAnsverse tug model. Svitzer plans collaborations with various companies for onboard equipment, such as battery and fuel cell systems, along with support for vessel construction post-design.
Gareth Prowse, the Head of Decarbonization at Svitzer, expressed his enthusiasm about the next phase of the world’s premier methanol hybrid fuel cell tug. He remarked that the project validates Svitzer’s commitment to decarbonizing its worldwide fleet, showcasing its skill to utilize innovative technology and alternative fuels.
A Cleaner Future at the Port of Gothenburg
Aside from the partnerships and technological breakthroughs, this project also signifies the emergence of a cleaner shipping future at the Port of Gothenburg. The MHFC tug, which is set to begin operations in the latter half of 2025, considers methanol as a preferred low-carbon substitute fuel.
Göran Eriksson, the Port of Gothenburg’s CEO, applauded Svitzer’s initiative to design and construct the planet’s inaugural methanol hybrid fuel cell tug. He posits this groundbreaking move as a significant stride toward the decarbonization of global towage services and a strategic fit for the Port’s bold initiative to decrease shipping emissions by 70% by 2030. The Port eagerly anticipates this pioneer vessel’s arrival in 2025.
