In a significant milestone for the maritime decarbonization movement, AYK Energy has been commissioned to manufacture and supply the 6MWh battery that will power the world’s first battery-methanol tug. This innovative tug is being built by Turkish shipyard Uzmar for Svitzer, the leading global provider of towage and marine services. The delivery of the vessel is scheduled for the second half of 2025.
First Contract with Uzmar Shipyard
This marks AYK Energy’s first contract with Uzmar and highlights the growing confidence in AYK’s advanced marine battery solutions. The 6MWh battery-powered tug will be deployed in Gothenburg, Sweden, where it will serve Svitzer’s operations in the port. This revolutionary tug will primarily operate on battery-electric power, contributing to the company’s efforts to reduce its carbon footprint in maritime operations. The tug will conduct over 90% of its operations using its battery-electric powertrain, offering zero-emission services across a significant portion of Svitzer’s operations in the port.
Battery-Powered Tug with Dual Fuel Methanol Engines
The tug’s design is based on Svitzer’s innovative TRAnsverse tug design, and the battery will be supplemented by dual-fuel methanol engines for backup power and extended range. This hybrid powertrain configuration combines the advantages of battery-electric propulsion with the versatility of methanol engines, offering an environmentally friendly and reliable power solution for the maritime industry.
At approximately 806 tonnes of gross tonnage, the new battery-methanol tug will be capable of achieving speeds of up to 14 knots. Its design ensures greater operational efficiency compared to traditional internal combustion engine-powered tugs. The combination of cutting-edge battery technology and methanol engines is expected to set a new standard in the industry, advancing the transition toward cleaner, more sustainable maritime operations.
AYK Energy’s Role in the Industry’s Sustainability Transition
AYK Energy’s founder, Chris Kruger, expressed his excitement about the project, stating, “We’re extremely pleased to have won the contract from Uzmar to work on this project, which is a trailblazer in the sector. It once again underlines the confidence the marine industry has in AYK to deliver. This project shows our continuing progress in winning larger battery projects, and that’s down to our advanced technology and commitment to delivering value for money.”
Kruger emphasized that AYK Energy is at the forefront of the growing demand for battery solutions in the maritime sector, adding, “Battery solutions are constantly expanding, and we are proud to be at the forefront when it comes to providing those solutions to the maritime sector. Companies like Svitzer see the combination of battery power and methanol engines as safe, efficient, and reliable. This work highlights how marine batteries can play a fundamental role in decarbonizing the maritime industry, right here and now.”
Svitzer’s Decarbonisation Milestone
Svitzer’s Head of Decarbonisation, Gareth Prowse, highlighted the importance of the project for the company’s sustainability goals, saying, “The launch of a first-of-its-kind newbuild project with our partners at Uzmar Shipyard is a significant milestone for our decarbonisation ambitions. The battery-electric tug will mean we can deliver our services to customers in the Port of Gothenburg with significantly lower carbon emissions, and still to the highest operational and safety standards.”
Uzmar’s Commitment to Green Maritime Operations
Uzmar’s CEO, A. Noyan Altug, also shared his enthusiasm about the project, stating, “By integrating cutting-edge technologies and sustainable practices, we are not just building a tug; we are helping to shape the future of green maritime operations.”
AYK Energy’s Growing Role in the Maritime Industry
As AYK Energy continues to expand its influence in the maritime battery sector, the company is experiencing a surge in demand for its products across a wide range of vessels. The company is currently supplying batteries for tugs, offshore support vessels (OSVs), superyachts, fishing vessels, workboats, and even large container ships, integrating their technology into the growing movement towards cleaner marine energy solutions.
The 6MWh battery for the Svitzer tug will be manufactured at AYK’s state-of-the-art 5000 sqm automated production facility in Zhuhai, China. Opened in 2023, the plant has an annual production capacity of 300MWh, with the ability to expand to 1GWh to meet the growing demand for sustainable maritime power solutions.
This groundbreaking project exemplifies AYK Energy’s commitment to advancing green technologies in the maritime industry and highlights the potential of hybrid battery-methanol systems in revolutionizing tug operations worldwide. As the industry continues to push toward decarbonization, AYK Energy stands at the forefront, playing a critical role in powering the future of sustainable maritime transport.
About Svitzer
Founded in 1833, Svitzer builds on nearly 200 years of experience, providing port and terminal towage services worldwide. Operating a fleet of 456 vessels, Svitzer serves approximately 2,000 customers in 141 ports and 40 terminals across 37 countries, reinforcing its position as a key player in global maritime infrastructure.
About Uzmar Shipyard
Uzmar Shipyard is a Turkish shipbuilding company renowned for its expertise in building advanced vessels, including tugboats, offshore support vessels, and other specialized ships. With a focus on incorporating innovative technologies and sustainable practices, Uzmar is helping to shape the future of green maritime operations. The shipyard’s commitment to excellence and its ability to integrate cutting-edge solutions into its vessels has earned it a strong reputation in the global maritime industry.
About AYK Energy
AYK Energy is a leading marine battery manufacturer committed to delivering innovative, sustainable power solutions to the maritime industry. With a focus on advanced battery technologies, AYK Energy plays a critical role in decarbonizing the sector and supporting the transition to greener shipping. The company’s cutting-edge batteries are powering a wide range of vessels, including tugs, OSVs, superyachts, and large container ships, providing reliable and zero-emission alternatives to traditional power sources. AYK Energy’s automated manufacturing facility in Zhuhai, China, ensures the company can meet the growing demand for sustainable maritime power systems.
Source AYK Energy | Svitzer