Canadian green fuels specialist EverWind Fuels will invest approximately CA$50 million (US$30 million) in a new fleet of low-emission tugs for operation in the Strait of Canso near Nova Scotia.
These new vessels will be owned locally and will replace EverWind's contracted fleet of three tugs, which were built between 1992 and 2004.
EverWind said the vessels are required to facilitate specialised operations associated with the transportation of green hydrogen and ammonia produced at Point Tupper, establishing a regional export hub to reach other clean fuel markets.
The tugs will also be used to support existing industries operating in the Strait of Canso.
EverWind expects the new tugs to be handed over in the summer of 2025.
The company said the tugs will be compliant with IMO Tier III emissions regulations, which means that their greenhouse gas emissions will be significantly lower than those of the current fleet. Specifically, they will ensure reductions of approximately 80 per cent of NOx and 25 per cent of CO2.
The vessels will include a 32-metre ASD tug and two 25-metre RSD tugs.