Svitzer has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Caterpillar Marine to implement technologies that will allow Svitzer to use methanol in their fleet.
Under the partnership, the duo plans to work on the installation of dual-fuel methanol engines on new tugs as well as conversions of existing Cat powered tugs, which comprise the majority of Svitzer’s fleet. Svitzer is also using biofuels as part of its decarbonization strategy in the form of its towage service called Ecotow.
It is therefore of utmost importance that we join forces with strategic collaborators, such as Caterpillar Marine, to find solutions for both existing and future vessels
… said Kasper Karlsen, global chief operating officer of Svitzer.
While we seek to mature and utilize new technologies, fuel types and operational approaches for new vessels, we also have to find solutions that help reduce the emissions from our existing fleet.
… said Gareth Prowse, head of decarbonization for Svitzer.
Andres Perez, global tug segment manager, Caterpillar Marine stated that they are supporting Svitzer to enable tugs to operate on methanol with diesel-like performance while providing fuel flexibility which is key to enabling operators to lower their carbon intensity via green methanol as availability increases. As he added, they’re taking full advantage of the learnings to provide conversion solutions for the existing fleet.\
For further reading:
Maersk signs MoU on methanol bunkering with Shanghai Port
