An agreement has been signed to design and build a new series of methanol-fuelled tugboats.
The four new designs, to be designed and built by Uzmar Shipyard and Robert Allan Ltd, represent a new generation of lower emission tugs that clients are demanding to meet CO2 reduction targets.
“It is an exciting step forward for us to sign these new design contracts with Uzmar. The close cooperation between RAL and Uzmar that has developed over more than 25 years of working together facilitates the efficient transfer of knowledge between our engineering teams,” said Mike Fitzpatrick, CEO, Robert Allan Ltd.
Eco-tugs, Source: Robert Allan Ltd
Robert Allan is at the forefront of designing alternative fuelled tugs. Pictured, the hybrid powered RApport 2400 MkII
Energy efficiency
This new series will have improved energy efficiency and will be able to generate a significant amount of annual CO2 emissions savings.
The methanol fuelled series will have LOA between 26 metres to 32 metres and include one tractor tug design.
Uzmar plans to replace all the tugboats in its fleet with eco-friendly newbuilds and offer the global market a solution for its needs for sustainable lower emission vessels.
“According to our research that has been ongoing for more than five years, our team believes that within the alternative fuels to fossil fuels, the most applicable and efficient choice for tugboats is methanol,” said Ahmet Noyan Altuğ, CEO, Uzmar.
”Signing contracts for this new methanol-powered design series is a step toward a new era for all of us.”
The parties aim to build the tugs in the last quarter of 2022. The name and specifications of the series are expected in the coming days.
Robert Allan is forging ahead with multiple partnerships to design and build alternative fuel tugs. In December 2021, the company announced it is developing a methanol fuel with Svitzer and its parent company Maersk.