KOTUG: All-electric E-Pusher to power emission-free sand transport in the Netherlands

Dutch towage and maritime company KOTUG has received an order from compatriot sand handling and transport specialist ROS for the delivery of a fully electric pusher tug.

The E-Pusher, model M, will be deployed in combination with barges provided by Jansma Shipping to establish an emission-free sand transport chain between the Maasvlakte and Rotterdam.

The KOTUG E-Pusher, in combination with barges, is expected to enable zero-emission transport of sand, from loading at the Maasvlakte to unloading in Rotterdam, with further distribution via electric trucks.

The fully electric E-Pusher, developed by KOTUG, is scheduled for completion in May 2025.

The entire emission-free system—from transshipment to final delivery—is expected to be fully operational by August 2025.

This initiative is said to represent a major milestone for the region, as ROS has been transitioning to zero-emission transport with previous investments in electric cranes for sand handling and the creation of a dedicated charging hub for electric trucks in Schiedam.

The next step involves establishing a 1-megawatt fast-charging station for the new electric pusher tug, which will be one of the first of its kind in Rotterdam, accelerating the city’s journey toward emission-free inland navigation.

The E-Pusher is a modular and scalable electric pusher tug. The series comprises three models (S, M and L) ranging from 9 to 22 meters in length, with a maximum draft of 0.8 to 1.35 meters, resulting in a draft 30% less than conventional pusher tug designs.

The swappable energy containers encompass Stage V diesel, (bio)gas, hydrogen, and battery solutions. The E-Pusher series features advanced technology and propulsion systems, establishing a new standard in emission-free navigation. The vessels are equipped to eliminate harmful emissions, including carbon dioxide (CO2), sulphur oxides (SOx), nitrogen oxides (NOx), and particulate matter (PM).

“We are proud to contribute to this groundbreaking emission-free transport chain for ROS, further demonstrating KOTUG’s commitment to sustainable innovation in the maritime industry. The E-Pusher is a key part of our strategy to decarbonise inland shipping, and we are excited to partner with ROS and Jansma to make zero-emission transport a reality in Rotterdam,” Ard-Jan Kooren, CEO and President of KOTUG, commented.

This initiative is poised to set new standards for sustainable shipping in the region, catering to the growing needs of government bodies, municipalities, and large construction companies while paving the way for a future-ready, zero-emission transport network.

In related news, KOTUG revealed today that it completed the acquisition of Cleaning Technology and Consultancy B.V. earlier this month. CTC, a family-owned business founded in 1996, began as a supplier of tank cleaning – and gas freeing equipment. Over the years, it has also become a specialist in the procurement and supply of a wide range of technical maritime needs.

CTC will remain an independent brand and will continue to build its client base as a standalone company.