ABB to supply electric propulsion systems to Indian tugboats

Swiss technology firm ABB has secured a contract to supply electric propulsion systems for two electric tugboats being built by Cochin Shipyard in India.

IMAGE: An illustration of Cochin Shipyard’s electric tugboat concept. ABB

Tugboats are small but powerful vessels used to tow or push larger ships within harbours, rivers, or canals.

Although the direct impact of these electric tugs on global greenhouse gas emissions will be relatively small, the project is expected to provide valuable technical and operational experience that could support the development of larger electric vessels in the future.

The tugboats are being constructed for Indian logistics and port services company Polestar Maritime and are scheduled for delivery in 2027. As part of the first phase of India's Green Tug Transition Programme (GTTP), they will be deployed at the container port - Jawaharlal Nehru Port Authority (JNPA).

The initiative aims to gradually replace India's diesel-powered harbour tug fleet with cleaner alternatives through a five-phase transition running from 2024 to 2040.

By Tuhin Roy

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