AWARDS 2024 | Best Hydrogen-Powered Tug – Hydrotug 1 – Armon Shipyard

While there are, as yet, few hydrogen-powered tugs in service, it is important that Baird Maritime reviews those that are and studies their development.

Hydrotug 1 has been built for an experienced Belgian owner. As Belgium is not renowned for its hydrocarbon or renewable energy resources with which to create the hydrogen to fuel the vessel, it is impressive that its owner has taken the gamble to follow that course.

Of course, this powerful and versatile tug can be operated on several other fuel types. In any case, it has chosen a first rate builder and the best of equipment to ensure that this brave venture has the best possible chance of success.

"It is a groundbreaking vessel for a number of reasons, making it an important development not only in tug design but also in the broader maritime decarbonisation effort," Ricardo Garcia, Group Commercial Director at Armon Shipyard, told Baird Maritime.

"It’s the world’s first hydrogen-powered tug, using dual-fuel engines that can run on both hydrogen and traditional marine fuel. The dual-fuel propulsion significantly reduces CO₂ emissions and represents a major step towards cleaner port operations."

Garcia explained that another key feature of the tug is its integration of compressed hydrogen storage systems, allowing it to safely and efficiently operate on a clean fuel source in demanding harbour environments.

"It's also fitted with state-of-the-art emissions control technologies, ensuring compliance with the strictest environmental regulations."

In Garcia's view, what really sets Hydrotug 1 apart is that it demonstrates the practical, real-world application of hydrogen technology in a high-power workboat setting, which, until recently, was mostly limited to prototypes or smaller vessels.

"It's a pioneering vessel paving the way for the future of sustainable maritime operations," he told Baird Maritime.

For a list of the 2024 "Best Of" award winners, please click here.