World’s First Hydrogen-Powered Tug Launched in Antwerp

The Port of Antwerp-Bruges and Belgian shipping and cleantech group CMB.TECH have successfully launched the world’s first hydrogen-powered tugboat, the Hydrotug 1.

The Hydrotug 1 is powered by two BeHydro V12 dual fuel medium speed engines that can burn hydrogen in combination with traditional fuel, resulting in an overall 65% reduction in fuel consumption and associated emissions. Each engine is capable of providing 2 megawatts of power, providing for an impressive bollard pull of 65 tonnes. Thee engines are also equipped with the latest EU Stage V emissions aftertreatment technology.

“Port of Antwerp-Bruges wants to fully exploit [hydrogen’s] potential and is committed to being an active pioneer in the hydrogen economy on a European scale,” said Jacques Vandermeiren, CEO Port of Antwerp-Bruges.

Alexander Saverys, CEO of CMB.TECH, said the tug shows each partners’ comittment to decarbonizing the shipping industry and showcasing scalable technology. “The Hydrotug 1 is another big step towards zero-carbon shipping and proves that there is a vibrant energy transition industry in Antwerp, Belgium and Europe,” said Saverys.

“Port of Antwerp-Bruges nurtures the ambition to become the energy gateway of Europe as a ‘green port’ and as pioneers. Hydrogen plays an important role in this ambition,” said Annick De Ridder, Vice Mayor for the City of Antwerp and President of the Board of the Port of Antwerp-Bruges. “This is precisely why the launch of the Hydrotug 1 is a significant moment. The Hydrotug 1 can run on both hydrogen and traditional fuel, beautifully demonstrating the potential of the transition to clean energy in the shipping industry.”

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