MPA seeks design proposals for Singapore’s new electric patrol craft

In an effort to decarbonize and digitalize maritime operations, the Maritime and Port Authority of Singapore (MPA) has issued an expression of interest (EOI) for design and development proposals for its electric patrol craft.

The new electric patrol craft is expected to be operational by Q1 2028.

Singapore raised its national climate target to achieve “net zero emissions by 2050” as part of the Long-Term Low-Emissions Development Strategy (LEDS). In support of Singapore’s 2050 national target, MPA patrol craft will correspondingly need to achieve net-zero emissions.

In addition to meeting MPA’s operational requirements, the designs are required to include safety features such as advanced battery management systems, secure battery compartments to maintain fire, gastight, and watertight integrity, and intelligent cooling systems for optimal thermal management. Proposals also need to include efficient charging and battery replacement solutions to support extended operations.

According to MPA, electric patrol craft designs would need to integrate autonomous and digital capabilities, including remote operation from shore-based control centers and advanced collision detection systems.

Lightweight construction should be adopted to ensure vessels’ operational performance while maintaining stability, seaworthiness, and energy efficiency, the authority added.

Proposals can be submitted by December 14, 2024.

As Offshore Energy earlier reported, MPA requires all harbor craft to become fully electric, capable of using B100 biofuel, or be compatible with net zero fuels such as hydrogen by 2030.

Almost a year ago, the Goal Zero Consortium, comprising companies such as SeaTech Solutions International (S), Shift Clean Energy, and Yinson GreenTech, launched Singapore’s first fully electric cargo vessel, the Hydromover.

Earlier this year, Singapore’s maritime startup Pyxis unveiled its first 100% electric passenger vessel X Tron. The battery-powered vessel has a range of up to 50 nautical miles and will operate out of Marina South Pier.