SeaTech and IRS set sights on next-gen green tug design

Classification society Indian Register of Shipping (IRS) has teamed up with Singapore-based maritime engineering and design company SeaTech Solutions to work on the design and classification of next-generation green tugs and harbor crafts.

To bolster their partnership, IRS and SeaTech signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) under which SeaTech will spearhead the design and engineering of green tugs and harbor crafts, incorporating the latest eco-friendly technologies.

These designs will be reviewed and approved-in-principle by IRS for local and international shipping demands.

The MoU will focus on the Green Tug Transition Program (GTTP) and the Harit Nauka – Green Transition Guidelines for inland vessels as laid out by the Ministry of Ports, Shipping, and Waterways, Government of India.

As part of the agreement, SeaTech will develop designs that comply with these guidelines, and IRS will class these vessels, ensuring they meet regulatory and environmental standards. This collaboration will also include retrofitting inland vessels to align with green transition goals.

IRS will conduct an engineering review of the design to ensure compliance with IRS Rules and other applicable international regulatory standards.

Additionally, IRS and SeaTech will launch joint training programs, aimed at enhancing skill sets and knowledge across the maritime industry. IRS will also provide specialized plan approval training to SeaTech’s engineers.

Furthermore, the MpU outlines a framework for collaborative research and industry projects that will address global challenges in the maritime sector, including decarbonization, alternative fuels, and vessel efficiency.

P. K. Mishra, Managing Director of IRS, stated: “This MOU is a testament to our ongoing commitment to fostering international cooperation and driving sustainable maritime practices. SeaTech’s expertise in maritime design, combined with IRS’ technical rigor, will play a key role in shaping the future of green shipping worldwide.”

G. S. Chopra, Managing Director of SeaTech, added: “We are delighted to join hands with IRS in working towards navigating to a green and sustainable future through Greentech solutions for shipping.”

SeaTech was part of the Goal Zero Consortium, including, Shift Clean Energy, and Yinson GreenTech, which developed and launched Singapore’s first fully electric cargo vessel, the Hydromover.

The company also partnered with Indian defense shipyard Garden Reach Shipbuilders and Engineers (GRSE), Shift Energy Group, and the American Bureau of Shipping (ABS) to develop electric tugs, named E-VOLT 50 as part of India’s ambitious strategy of becoming the ‘Global Hub for Green Shipbuilding’ by 2030.