Singapore launches first all-electric tugboat

Singapore's first all-electric tugboat (Photo: PaxOcean)

Kuok Maritime Group (KMG), through the Coastal Sustainability Alliance (CSA), has launched Singapore’s first all-electric tugboat (E-Tug), marking a major milestone in the decarbonisation efforts of the island nation’s maritime industry. Designed and locally assembled, the zero-emission tug is expected to begin operating in Singapore waters in Q1 2026.

The launch supports the Maritime and Port Authority of Singapore’s (MPA) Decarbonisation Blueprint for Singapore’s Maritime Industry, and aligns with the government’s goal of all new port facilities being fully electric or compatible with net-zero emission fuels by 2030, thereby fostering a sustainable coastal logistics ecosystem.

“This launch is a testament to CSA’s robust industry collaboration and partnership with MPA,” said Tan Thai Yong, Managing Director and CEO of PaxOcean Group. “Together, we are laying the groundwork for maritime innovation, low-carbon solutions, and a refresh of how port activities can become sustainable.”

The electric tug has a mast pull of 50 tonnes and is powered by a 3 MWh lithium-titanate (LTO) battery system, which completely eliminates emissions during operation. It is also designed to be future-ready, compatible with green methanol and ammonia once they become commercially viable. With a high-fidelity digital twin, the vessel leverages real-time data analytics to improve efficiency and minimize unnecessary movements.

In March 2022, the CSA initiative was announced under the leadership of Kuok Marine Group (KMG). The initiative brings together the group’s key business units: PaxOcean Holdings, Pacific Carriers Limited (PCL), and PACC Offshore Services Holdings (POSH). CSA provides a comprehensive platform to realise the goals of building the next generation of Singapore’s maritime ecosystem, as well as promoting decarbonisation, electrification and advances in energy-efficient engineering and logistics solutions.

CSA plans to invest more than S$20 million in sustainability efforts over ten years, with the goal of reducing carbon emissions from ships by 50% and maritime traffic volume by 20% by 2030.

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Source: Phaata.com (According to Container-News)

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