Green tugnology all the rage
In common with several other towage companies Svitzer is running an EcoTugproject with the aim of ensuring that the company maintains a strong positionas an environmentally sustainable service provider and is working towardscontributing to a cleaner, safer and healthier environment. This is beingachieved by examining current operations and tug designs and looking for longterm step changes in operational practices and technology.
Port authorities in many parts of the world are becoming increasingly aware of their responsibilities for reducing exhaust emissions in port areas and diesel powered tugs displaying dense black smoke while manoeuvring have proved to be an obvious target.
In 2007, US operator Foss Maritime announced plans to build the world’s first true hybrid tug boat, a ‘green’ vessel that will significantly reduce harmful nitrogen oxide, particulates, sulphur dioxide and carbon emissions. The hybrid tug will have diesel engines, to provide the power needed for major ship-handling operations but when idling in a harbour or doing less-strenuous work will rely on electrical power from batteries and diesel generators. Now under construction, the new tug will use less fuel and be quieter than its conventional predecessors.
The project is being backed by the ports of Los Angeles and Long Beach who are contributing about $1.3m to the Foss’ initiative as part of their San Pedro Bay Ports Clean Air Action Plan, a sweeping proposal aimed at significantly reducing the health risks posed by air pollution from port-related ships, trains, trucks, terminal equipment and harbour craft. In exchange, Foss has agreed to base the first hybrid tug at the twin ports for five years.
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