On May 23, 2024, the Panama Canal Authority ordered ten hybrid tractor tugboats from European shipbuilder Astilleros Armón, with an option for ten more.
Each 30-meter vessel, equipped with a 70-tonne bollard pull, will feature hybrid-electric propulsion systems and Corvus Energy’s battery systems, specifically the 450 kWh Corvus Orca ESS. The contract, signed in October 2023, is valued at US$150 million. This initiative aligns with the Panama Canal Authority’s sustainability goals, aiming to achieve net-zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2050.
The new hybrid tugboats will enhance the Panama Canal’s shiphandling capabilities, especially following its expansion, which now accommodates larger ships such as container ships, LNG carriers, and cruise ships.
These vessels will reduce emissions during operations in the canal and Panamanian ports, contributing significantly to the Authority’s environmental objectives.
Tugboats are at the forefront of maritime electrification due to their near-shore operations and regular recharging opportunities. This trend began with hybrid tugboats in 2011 and fully electric versions by 2019.
Notably, in North America, new all-electric tugboats are emerging, including those by HaiSea Marine, SAAM Towage, and Crowley eWolf, all using Corvus Energy systems.
As the maritime industry prioritizes carbon reduction, the adoption of hybrid-electric and fully electric tugboats is expected to grow rapidly worldwide.
