A hydrogen-powered tugboat is now plying the waters of the Port of Antwerp-Bruges in Belgium. The Hydrotug 1, developed by CMB.TECH, will enter full operation at the port in 2024.

The world’s first hydrogen-fueled tugboat is propelled by two BeHydro V12 dual-fuel medium-speed combustion engines, each generating 2 MW. These engines can run dual fuel with port injection of the hydrogen and direct injection of the other fuel, including diesel or gasoil, or solely on hydrogen.

Two dual-fuel engines can burn hydrogen or conventional fuel. Source: CMB.TECH

The Hydrotug 1 can store 415 kg of compressed hydrogen in six stillages installed on deck, providing the capacity to enable the vessel to operate for 24 hours. Traditional fuel consumption is reduced by 65% and emissions are also minimized, thanks to the inclusion of particulate filters and selective catalytic reduction aftertreatment systems.

In a bid to advance its decarbonization goals, the Port of Antwerp-Bruges also plans to commission its first methanol-fueled tug in 2024.