Global Maritime Congress 2024, İstanbul, Türkiye, 20 - 21 Mayıs 2024, ss.5-6
Explore Green Energy Options Available for Tugboats
Renda Aslantaş1,*, Murat PAMIK2,*
1Dokuz Eylül
University, Graduate School of Natural and Applied Science, Marine
Transportation Systems Engineering Program, Tınaztepe Campus, Buca, İzmir
2Dokuz Eylül
University, Maritime Faculty, Marine Engineering Department, Tınaztepe Campus,
Buca, İzmir
*Corresponding
Author
The maritime
industry is undergoing significant transformation as it grapples with the
urgent need for de-carbonization. Alternative-fuels are emerging as viable
solution to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, and this shift extends to
tugboats.
In order to make
maneuvers at ports, it is necessary to have purpose-built and advanced
equipment. Among them, tugs have a vital role in terms of ensuring faster and
safer maneuvers in ports. Tugboats have evolved significantly over time, driven
by environmental concerns and efficiency demands. In the early-19th century,
steam-powered tugboats emerged, increasing power and maneuverability. Mid-20th
century saw the transition to diesel engines, enhancing efficiency and safety.
Traditional diesel engines are being replaced by electric propulsion systems,
which emit fewer pollutants and require less maintenance. Alternative-fuels and innovations on engines,
hold promise greener future in industry and more sustainable maneuvers.
Policymakers should incentivize ship-owners to transition toward sustainable
energy sources by addressing infrastructure gaps and providing economic
incentives. As the industry navigates this transition, alternative fuels will
play a vital role in shaping the future of transportation. In this study, a
review was conducted to explore green energy options available for tugboats.
These options were classified based on their economic, environmental, and
maneuvering safety aspects.
Keywords: Alternative
Fuels, Tugboats, Maneuver, Marine Engine