Wärtsilä launches new eco-friendly tug designs

Finnish technology group Wärtsilä announced the introduction of new environmentally- friendly tug designs.

As explained, since they typically operate in or close to harbours and populated areas, tugs are particularly affected by environmental considerations, and the need for regulatory compliance is an increasing concern for tug owners and operators worldwide.

These latest designs, to be known as the Wärtsilä HYTug series, have been developed utilising hybrid propulsion technology. Notably, the main engine power is less than with conventional designs, bringing energy efficiency, decreasing emissions and fuel bill and lessening the amount of engine maintenance needed.

Each design has the option to select either diesel mechanical hybrid, or diesel electric hybrid propulsion. The new tugs also feature large propeller diameters for high performance propulsion.

    “We believe that new tugs will in future rely more and more on battery and hybrid propulsion, which very well complements today’s operational requirements,” says Riku-Pekka Hägg, Vice President, Ship Design, Wärtsilä Marine Solutions.

The development work has been carried out in close cooperation with the ABS, BV and Lloyds Register classification societies, and the designs have received Approval-in-Principle (AiP) certification. This certification means that the design complies with class safety regulations and will be class approved in actual projects. The Wärtsilä HY solution has itself received AiP certification from the Lloyds Register classification society.