The Vietnamese-built electric tugboat launched at Belgium’s Antwerp Port. (Source: VNA)

The electrification of tugboats aligns with efforts to reduce greenhouse gas emissions in transport, a sector with significant CO2 output.

Replacing diesel-powered tugboats along the Scheldt River, Volta 1, built by a Dutch company in Vietnam, is noted as Europe’s first electric tug of its kind. Its advanced batteries reportedly enable 12-hour operations with a 70-ton pull, emitting no direct CO2.

It is under consideration whether Volta 1 will be a model for the port’s fleet.

Jacques Vermeiren, CEO of Antwerp-Bruges Port, said the port is testing hydrogen and methanol-powered tugboats to identify the best technology for carbon neutrality by 2050. Despite higher initial costs, electric tugboats could have lower long-term operating costs, he noted.

According to him, the port has been investing in 350 MW of wind power, solar energy, and battery systems to boost energy self-sufficiency, enhancing its appeal to businesses targeting carbon-neutral transport. Volta 1 is seen as a symbol of Europe’s climate goals connecting with Vietnam’s advancing manufacturing role in the global green value chain.