Port of Antwerp has ordered construction of a tug powered by hydrogen, the first in the world. This unique “Hydrotug” is driven by combustion engines that burn hydrogen in combination with diesel. The motors also comply with the very strictest standard, the EU Stage V, making them the lowest-rated for emissions on the market. Compagnie Maritime Belge (CMB) is in charge of the construction, which is due to begin shortly. The ultra-low-emission Hydrotug is expected to be operational within two years.
With this world first Antwerp is making an important step in the transition to a sustainable, CO2-neutral port. By lending support to this promising technology Port of Antwerp hopes that the shipping industry will follow. The port is systematically pursuing a policy of making its entire fleet eco-friendly by incorporating the most environment-friendly technologies available on the market.
The Hydrotug is the first vessel with output in the 4000 kW class to be powered by hydrogen-diesel dual fuel. The combination of this dual fuel technology with a state-of-the-art particle filter and catalyzer designed to meet the very highest standards will ensure that the vessel is ultra-low-emission. Combustion of hydrogen does not emit any CO2, and the particle filter combined with the catalyzer will result in minimal emissions of NOx and particulates.
“As an industrial seaport, Antwerp’s role in the energy transition should not be underestimated. We are working towards becoming a CO2-neutral port. Together with our partners we are preparing for the future in a constant search for innovative applications and opportunities. With this world first we aim to further prepare the way for alternative fuels such as hydrogen, in order to realize the transition to alternative, renewable sources of energy. At Port of Antwerp we are setting a good example with this significant step towards making our own tugs eco-friendly,” said Port of Antwerp CEO Jacques Vandermeiren.
“We are convinced of the potential of hydrogen as the key to sustainable shipping and making the energy transition of a reality,” commented Alexander Saverys, CEO of Compagnie Maritime Belge. “The expertise that we acquire with the Hydrotug will enable us to further develop the use of hydrogen as a ship’s fuel.”
Source: Port of Antwerp
