On May 19, 2025, the Port of Antwerp-Bruges launched Volta 1, Europe’s first fully electric tugboat, developed in collaboration with Damen Shipyards.
With a battery capacity of 2,782 MWh, the Reversed Stern Drive tugboat delivers the same towing power (70 tons) as a diesel tug, while operating entirely without emissions. It can sail for up to 12 hours and be fully recharged in just two hours via a 1.5 MW charging station.
The Volta 1 is a powerful example of our strategy to actively integrate sustainable technology into our operations. As a global port, we are taking our responsibility to pull the maritime sector into the energy transition
… said Jacques Vandermeiren, CEO Port of Antwerp-Bruges.
Pioneering in energy transition
As the fifth-largest bunker port in the world, Port of Antwerp-Bruges also aims to become a full-fledged multi-fuel port. It therefore wants to offer low-carbon alternatives in addition to bio- and conventional fuels. Over the past year and a half, the port introduced the world’s first hydrogen and methanol-powered tugs.
Achieving this European first in the year when we are also celebrating 150 years of tug service makes it both symbolic and historic. It shows how our port and region continue to invest in sustainable innovation. Even in challenging times, we resolutely choose the future and take a leadership role
… commented Johan Klaps, Vice Mayor for the Port and Economy City of Antwerp / President of the board Port of Antwerp-Bruges.
The partnership with Damen Shipyards Group plays a key role in this transition. Damen, which built the world’s first electric tugboat in 2022 in Auckland, New Zealand, began construction of the six RSD tugs for Port of Antwerp-Bruges in 2023 in Vietnam. After a journey of more than 10,000 kilometres, the ships arrived in Antwerp in November 2024. There they were prepared for operational deployment, including a technical start-up, crew training and installation of charging infrastructure. The official launch of the Volta 1 is the culmination of this journey.
This delivery is perfectly in line with our ongoing commitment to better ships and technological progress. We are delighted that this allows us to contribute to achieving the port’s ambitious sustainability targets
… explained Vincent Maes, Sales Manager Benelux Damen.
