New battery-electric tug to bolster Svitzer’s green initiatives
Denmark-based Svitzer, a leading provider of towage and marine services, is making significant strides toward sustainability. The company has announced an order for a new battery-powered tug designed to deliver near-zero emissions for towage services in the Øresund Strait. This strait serves as a natural border between Sweden and Denmark. The new tug is expected to enhance Svitzer’s commitment to reducing carbon emissions while meeting the growing demand for environmentally friendly marine services.
Details of the New Battery-Powered Tug
The new tug, set to be delivered by Turkish shipbuilder Sanmar Shipyards in the second half of 2025, is based on a design by renowned naval architect Robert Allan. It will measure 25 meters in length and have a draft of 5.6 meters. The tug will boast a bollard pull of 70 tons, making it capable of handling significant towing tasks. A standout feature of this vessel is its 1,818 kWh battery, which allows it to operate solely on electric power. This capability is crucial for achieving Svitzer’s goal of near-zero emissions.
In addition to its primary battery system, the tug will be equipped with two backup generators. This design ensures extended endurance for longer operations, which is essential in marine environments. Furthermore, the tug will include firefighting capabilities, enhancing its versatility and safety during operations. Mathias Jonasson, Managing Director for Scandinavia at Svitzer, highlighted the increasing demand for green towage services in the region. He emphasized that the new battery-powered tug addresses both the need for reliable services and the company’s commitment to reducing CO2 emissions by 2030.
Commitment to Sustainability and Future Developments
Svitzer’s investment in this new tug is part of a broader strategy to decarbonize its fleet. Last year, the company took a significant step by signing a contract with Uzmar Shipbuilding for the construction of the world’s first battery-electric methanol tug. This innovative vessel will have a gross tonnage of approximately 806 tonnes and will be powered by a 6MWh battery system. It is expected to perform up to 25% of Svitzer’s operations in the Swedish Port of Gothenburg, further solidifying the company’s commitment to sustainable practices.
In addition to the methanol tug, Svitzer has also partnered with Nordhavn Power Solutions to supply two methanol-based generator systems for a larger hybrid solution. This new tugboat is scheduled for handover in the first half of 2026. Tamer Geçkin, R&D and Electrical Systems Director at Sanmar Shipyards, expressed pride in supporting Svitzer’s efforts to decarbonize its fleet. He noted that the new battery tug represents the future of tug operations, combining efficiency with environmental responsibility.
As the maritime industry continues to evolve, Svitzer’s commitment to green technology positions it as a leader in sustainable marine services. The introduction of battery-powered and hybrid tugs marks a significant shift toward reducing the environmental impact of towage operations, setting a precedent for others in the industry.
