Danish firm to supply methanol-based generator systems for Svitzer’s new tug

Danish company Nordhavn Power Solutions has been contracted to supply two methanol-based generator systems for a larger hybrid solution on Svitzer’s new tugboat.

As disclosed, Svitzer’s new tugboat will operate with a hybrid solution. Batteries are combined with a methanol generator system, which is expected to emit zero emissions under certain operating conditions. The solution also ensures that the boat can remain in operation even on longer missions, where the battery capacity is insufficient.

The new tugboat, which is being built at Turkish shipyard Uzmar Shipyards, is scheduled for delivery in the first half of 2026.

“Being able to contribute to Svitzer’s new hybrid solution with our methanol generator systems is a major milestone for us at Nordhavn Power Solutions. We are proud that our technology plays a central role towards more environmentally friendly operations, and that motivates us to deliver to even more in the future,” said CSO at Nordhavn Power Solutions Jørk Rudolph.

“We are very satisfied with this solution, which supports our long-term goals of reducing our CO₂ emissions and becoming CO₂ neutral by 2040. With Nordhavn’s methanol generator solution, we can ensure that the ship’s operation remains sustainable even in very demanding operations, where the range until the battery could otherwise have been a limitation,” said Thomas Bangslund, Head of Innovation at Svitzer.

Nordhavn Power Solutions previously supplied advanced methanol generator systems for several projects, including the delivery of three methanol-based generator systems for Esvagt’s two new service operation vessels (SOVs).

Svitzer recently signed a contract with Turkish shipyard Uzmar Shipbuilding for the construction of the “world-first” battery electric methanol tug.

Designed in collaboration with naval architect Robert Allan, the 34.9-meter-long tug will feature a 6MWh battery supported by dual-fuel methanol engines for backup and range extension. 

The ship is expected to conduct more than 90% of its operations using the battery-electric powertrain and conduct up to 25% of Svitzer’s work in the Port of Gothenburg.