The Coastal Sustainability Alliance Launches First Fully Electric Supply Boat and Lays Keel for Electric Tug

The Coastal Sustainability Alliance (CSA), spearheaded by Kuok Maritime Group (KMG), has achieved significant milestones in its efforts towards sustainable maritime operations. On February 5, 2025, CSA unveiled its first fully electric supply boat and laid the keel for a cutting-edge electric tug at PaxOcean Batam.

These electric vessels mark a pioneering initiative in Singapore, designed to meet the nation’s target of transitioning all new harbor craft to be fully electric or compatible with net-zero fuels by 2030.

The Electric Supply Boat: PXO-EXL-1

The electric supply boat, named PXO-EXL-1, has been meticulously crafted in collaboration with the Maritime and Port Authority of Singapore (MPA) and Institutes of Higher Learnings (IHLs)/Research Institutes (RI) to optimize energy efficiency for sustainable coastal operations. Dual-classed by Bureau Veritas (BV) and RINA, the vessel boasts emission-free cruising at 8 knots and can accommodate a payload of 40 tons or 60 pallets.

With its innovative design and operational efficiency, the PXO-EXL-1 promises a remarkable 60% energy savings compared to traditional vessels, thus reducing costs and carbon emissions for the industry. The vessel is set to undergo trials in the latter half of 2025, showcasing its operational prowess and environmental benefits.

The Electric Tug: PXO-ACE-1

In parallel to the e-supply boat launch, CSA also laid the keel for its first fully electric tug, PXO-ACE-1. Supported by the MPA Maritime Innovation and Technology Fund, this 50T bollard pull tug integrates state-of-the-art propulsion technologies, energy storage systems, and advanced battery management. The vessel is future-proofed for zero-carbon fuels and is expected to be completed by early 2026.

Industry Voices

Tan Thai Yong, Managing Director and CEO of PaxOcean Group and Chairperson of CSA, expressed his pride in these accomplishments, stating, “The launch of the PXO-EXL-1 e-supply boat exemplifies our commitment to decarbonizing Singapore’s coastal logistics. Together with the keel lay of PXO-ACE-1 electric tug, we are advancing towards a greener and more efficient maritime sector.”

Kenneth Lim, Assistant Chief Executive (Industry & Transformation) at MPA, echoed this sentiment, emphasizing the importance of industry collaboration in driving maritime decarbonization and energy-efficient solutions.

As the Coastal Sustainability Alliance continues to push boundaries in sustainable maritime practices, the launch of these electric vessels sets a new standard for eco-friendly operations in Singapore’s waters.