Posted on March 3, 2025
In focus: ✔ RSD-E Tug 2513 ✔ Zero emission tug ✔ Electric tug ✔ Sustainability
As technology advances and sustainability becomes more widely adopted, among other actions global ports are looking to adopt sustainable alternatives to conventional tugs. Sparky was the very first electric tug on the market and remains a frontrunner for tug operators looking for sustainable solutions.
The design process started with a comprehensive feasibility study on harbour operations and their potential for the introduction of fully electric tugs. Over three years, the initial concept was developed into the successful RSD-E tug. Since then, more E-tugs have been delivered, each incorporating lessons learned from the previous design to strengthen its performance based on proven technology. Today, DMS has E-tugs within its fleet to introduce potential customers to the market, demonstrating the zero emission capabilities of E-tugs in harbour operations. With this solution we contribute to SDG 7: Affordable and Clean Energy.
DFS offers a complete solution when it comes to operating a vessel with zero emissions. Not only can we provide our customers with an electric vessel, we can also supply the charging arm and the charge station that connects it to the grid. Strategic placement of the charging arm allows for optimised operations, enabling a quick charge at the terminal before heading out for the next job.
Sustainable operations with a low total cost of ownership
The RSD-E tug is designed to minimize the total cost of ownership over its entire lifetime. Depending on the cost of energy, the total cost of ownership over the lifetime of an E-tug can be equal or lower than that of an equivalent diesel RSD Tug 2513. While there is significant potential for further development of the E-tugs, this marks the first step toward a more sustainable maritime industry.
Improving the marine habitat within ports and harbours
By using electric propulsion, DMS’s E-tugs emit less sound into the water thereby reducing noise pollution both within the port and the wider marine environment. Excess noise, light, pollution and other human activities within ports can have substantial negative impacts on the behaviour of marine creatures of all types and their ecosystems. By replacing loud diesel tugs with others that have non-intrusive electric propulsion, the innovative E-tugs create an opportunity for marine life to flourish again within harbours. Furthermore, by eliminating the need to refuel a diesel engine, electric tugs reduce the risks of toxic fuel leaking into the harbour, leading to unhabitable conditions and the degradation of the marine environment.
Sustainable and safe design
The E-tugs’ batteries are chosen to last the lifetime of the vessel, which amounts to approximately 30,000 charges. This cradle-to-grave concept aims to minimise the need for multiple battery replacements throughout a vessel’s lifetime, subsequently reducing the amount of waste generated by the vessel. If a battery needs to be replaced, it can be given a second life storing excess renewable energy from the grid.
Additionally, the battery system has been designed to minimise the risk of failure and maximise safety on board. When designing this vessel every opportunity was taken to ensure safe operations. The cooling system, battery chemistry and temperature thresholds were all intensively assessed to ensure a fail-safe system. Redundancy within the system enhances reliability, availability and fault tolerance by minimising the risk of total system failure. However, in the case of an emergency, back-up generator sets ensure that the E-tug and those on board can safely return to port.
Knowledge of electricity and automation is required to operate an electric tug, and Damen offers E&A training for those who will be operating the vessel. It’s imperative that the crew is familiar with and trusts the system along with being aware of any potential risks to ensure fail safe operations. Operational training further ensures that the vessel is operated in the best way possible to further guarantee the vessel’s longevity and reliability.
While there is significant potential for further development of the E-tugs, this marks the first step towards a more sustainable maritime industry.
Take a virtual tour of the E-tug here.
Interested in knowing more about adding this sustainable solution to your fleet? Contact: info@damen.com
