Port of Antwerp-Bruges launches electric tugs

Built by Damen, the Volta 1 showcases the port’s commitment to achieving climate neutrality by 2050, offering a bollard pull of 70 tonnes and fully emission-free operations. With powerful batteries that recharge in just two hours via a 1.5 MW charging station, it marks a major step in decarbonising port operations.

“With this new generation of energy-efficient tugboats, we take a significant step forward in our transition to a climate-neutral fleet,” said Rob Smeets, chief operations officer of the Port of Antwerp-Bruges.

“The Volta 1 is a groundbreaking addition to our fleet and a beacon for the entire maritime sector.”

Alongside the Volta 1, five new diesel-powered tugboats also joined the fleet, all featuring an energy-efficient design that reduces emissions and fuel consumption. The tugboats were constructed in Vietnam and underwent rigorous sea trials before making their journey to Antwerp via the Jumbo Kinetic, a heavy-lift vessel.

These new tugboats are part of the port authority’s broader greening programme, which aims to reduce the port’s CO₂ emissions, responsible for nearly 85% of port-related emissions.

This programme includes previous projects such as the Hydrotug, the first hydrogen-powered tugboat, and the Methatug, the first methanol-powered tugboat.

“The pioneering steps the port has taken towards greater sustainability are commendable and will undoubtedly serve as an inspiration for other ports,” said Vincent Maes, sales manager Benelux at Damen.