Electric tug raises the bar for ports

The marine battery manufacturer said that the Svitzer Balder, constructed by Uzmar shipyard in Türkiye, is the first battery-methanol harbour tug of its kind.

Following successful trials, the electric tug is scheduled for delivery to the Port of Gothenburg in Sweden, where it will carry out more than 90% of towing and docking operations using a battery-electric powertrain, supporting ongoing port electrification efforts.

“I would like to thank Uzmar and Svitzer for trusting AYK to build and deliver this battery system,” said Chris Kruger, founder AYK Energy.

“Battery technology is evolving rapidly, becoming more powerful, more advanced and more competitive, offering an increasingly attractive solution for vessel operators.”

ABS certified

The Svitzer Balder is equipped with an ABS-certified AriesA 6MWh battery system, designed for an operational lifespan of around ten years.

AYK Energy played a central role in managing the vessel’s sea trials, reinforcing confidence in the deployment of high-capacity battery systems within the electric tug segment.

The company emphasised the role of lithium-iron-phosphate (LFP) cell technology in driving down costs and improving safety compared with nickel manganese cobalt alternatives.

Svitzer Balder’s battery system is complemented by dual-fuel methanol engines, providing operational redundancy and extended range.

The project reflects accelerating demand for vessel electrification solutions across multiple vessel classes, as ports and operators prioritise emissions reduction and energy resilience through port electrification strategies.