AET and Fleetzero Launch Hybrid-Electric Vessel Project
AET, a prominent global maritime transportation company, has partnered with Fleetzero, a developer of modular marine batteries, to create the world’s longest-range plug-in hybrid-electric vessel. The agreement was formalized during a signing ceremony held at AET’s Offshore office in Galveston, Texas, attended by key representatives from both organizations. This innovative project aims to significantly reduce greenhouse gas emissions and enhance operational efficiency in the maritime industry.
Groundbreaking Agreement for Sustainable Shipping
The partnership between AET and Fleetzero marks a significant milestone in the maritime sector’s transition towards sustainable practices. Capt. Ron Wood, AET’s Global Director, Commercial, and Mr. Steven Henderson, CEO of Fleetzero, signed the agreement, which outlines plans to retrofit one of AET’s Lightering Support Vessels (LSV) with a state-of-the-art plug-in hybrid-electric system. This vessel will primarily operate on battery power, leading to an estimated reduction of greenhouse gas emissions by approximately 82% compared to traditional LSVs, based on a tank-to-wake analysis.
The environmental benefits of this initiative are substantial, with projections indicating a potential avoidance of 1,220 tonnes of greenhouse gases. Additionally, the hybrid-electric system is expected to lower fuel consumption and maintenance costs while upholding high safety standards. Mr. Zahid Osman, President & Group CEO of MISC Group, emphasized the importance of this collaboration, stating, “This partnership marks a pivotal step in our decarbonisation journey and energy transition strategy.” He noted that integrating hybrid electric solutions into AET’s fleet represents a commitment to innovative and sustainable maritime solutions.
Advancing Marine Electrification
Fleetzero’s CEO, Mr. Steven Henderson, expressed enthusiasm for the project, highlighting its potential to revolutionize marine electrification in a commercially viable manner. He stated, “The impact is immense – drastically reducing emissions from vessel operations.” Henderson, who has a background as a mariner, emphasized that the technology developed by Fleetzero is designed with mariner safety and operational efficiency in mind.
This collaboration not only showcases AET’s commitment to sustainable maritime transportation but also aligns with broader industry efforts to achieve decarbonisation. By evaluating the feasibility and operational performance of this hybrid-electric technology, AET and Fleetzero are paving the way for potential future deployments across AET’s fleet and possibly MISC’s fleet as well. This initiative underscores the maritime industry’s ongoing commitment to environmental stewardship and innovation in the face of climate change challenges.
