Belgian and Dutch Partnership Sets Sail with Hydrogen-Powered Tug Vessels
Key Ideas
- CMB.Tech, a Belgian shipowner, collaborates with Damen Shipyards from the Netherlands to build four hydrogen-powered tug vessels.
- The order was signed in Sharjah at Albwardy Damen, a joint venture between Dutch shipbuilders Damen and Albwardy Investment of Dubai.
- The partnership was solidified after Lloyd’s Register approved the hydrogen solution for installation in the dual-fuel Azimuth Stern Drive (ASD) tugs.
- This initiative marks a significant step towards sustainable marine transportation and the adoption of environmentally friendly technologies in the shipping industry.
CMB.Tech, a company controlled by the Saverys family, has signed a significant order with Damen Shipyards for the construction of four hydrogen-powered tug vessels. The agreement was finalized in Sharjah at Albwardy Damen, a strategic collaboration between Damen and Albwardy Investment based in Dubai. This milestone deal, which was officially inked on 23 May, signifies a pivotal moment in the maritime industry's shift towards sustainable practices. The dual-fuel Azimuth Stern Drive (ASD) tugs will incorporate a hydrogen solution that has received approval in principle from Lloyd’s Register. By embracing hydrogen technology, these vessels are poised to reduce emissions and contribute to a cleaner marine ecosystem. The collaboration between the Belgian and Dutch companies showcases a joint commitment to innovation and environmental stewardship, setting a new standard for green initiatives in the shipping sector.