Crowley has accepted delivery of the eWolf, the first all-electric ship-assisted harbor tugboat in the United States
Crowley recently took over the eWolf, the first all-electric ship-assisted harbor tugboat in the United States. This marks an important milestone in the company's efforts to promote sustainability and reduce carbon emissions.
Designed by Crowley's engineering services team, the eWolf is emission-free while delivering the full performance of a traditional tugboat.
The project was made possible through a partnership between Crowley and federal, state, and local government partners. They are all committed to improving air quality through the use of marine battery energy as well as port technology. As part of the program, the Port of San Diego has installed shore-side microgrid charging and storage stations.
"eWolf will provide services through its advanced vessel control technology and best-in-class energy features, while delivering the safety, quality and reliability that Crowley and our sailors are known for," said James Fowler, Senior Vice President and General Manager. Crowley Shipping. "We are pleased to have achieved this important achievement for our company and the U.S. maritime industry through our collaboration with our partners. ”
The ABS Class eWolf was built by Master Boat Builders' shipyard in Corden, Alabama, and is 82 feet (25 meters) long with beams 40 feet (21 meters). Equipped with electric winches in the bow and stern, the bollard pull is 70 tons. The boat has no exhaust pipes, providing pilots with an unobstructed 360-degree view of their surroundings.
In addition, it is equipped with a 6.2 MWh modular battery system that can be upgraded as new technologies are developed. It is also designed to provide two vessel ancillary jobs in port for each charge.
The ABB propulsion system is powered by two 2,100 kW electric motors, which enable the vessel to reach a top speed of 12 knots. The battery pack provides energy to the system, and there are also two small diesel generators on board for emergency use or beyond the distance allowed by the battery power.
Electric tugs will have a significant impact on emissions reduction. According to EPA calculations, the tug will reduce nitrogen oxides (NOx), diesel particulate matter by 2.5 tons, and carbon dioxide (CO2) by 3,100 tons in the first 10 years of operation. This equates to a reduction of 350,000 gallons of gas, which is quite impressive. The vessel features ABB's innovative integrated electric propulsion system.
Garrett Rice, President of Master Boat Builders, said: "eWolf demonstrates where the shipping industry can go in terms of innovation and sustainability through a strong partnership between owners, designers, suppliers and shipyards. "We are proud to be working with Crowley on the construction of eWolf and look forward to seeing her work in San Diego soon. ”
After transportation and final demonstration trials, the 82-foot harbor tug is now ready to operate at the Port of San Diego once Crowley's microgrid shore-side charging station is built. Port operations are expected to begin in spring 2024.
