Europe’s First Fully Electric Tugboat Launched in Belgium’s Port of Antwerp-Bruges

Belgium’s Port of Antwerp-Bruges has launched the Volta 1, also known as Europe’s first fully electric tugboat, as an “important step in the port’s integrated greening program”, striving for a climate-neutral operation by 2050.

The Belgian port commissioned the electric tugboat on May 19, together with five other energy-efficient RSD tugs, to replace older vessels under a broader fleet renewal initiative.

The Innovative Volta 1 Tugboat

Developed and built by Damen, the Volta 1 is a reversed stern drive (RSD) tugboat designed on a double bow principle and equipped with a patented Twin Fin skeg for optimal stability and manoeuvrability.

The tugboat is 24.73 meters long and 13.13 meters wide, with towing power of 70 tons and a speed of 12 knots.

It is equipped with a battery featuring a capacity of 2,782 MWh, which can be recharged in as little as two hours via a 1.5 MW charging station. Thanks to these features, the Volta 1 is said to be completely emission-free and can cruise for up to 12 hours.

Construction and Launch

The construction of the Volta 1 and five other RSD tugs for the Port of Antwerp-Bruges began in 2023 in Vietnam, and the ships arrived in Antwerp in November 2024. They were prepared for operational deployment, including a technical start-up, crew training, and installation of charging infrastructure, culminating in the official launch of Volta 1.

Environmental Initiatives

In addition to launching Europe’s first fully electric tugboat, the Port of Antwerp-Bruges introduced the world’s first hydrogen and methanol-powered tugs over the past year and a half. The port aims to become a full-fledged multi-fuel port, offering low-carbon alternatives in addition to bio- and conventional fuels.

Port CEO’s Statement

Jacques Vandermeiren, CEO of Port of Antwerp-Bruges, said: “The Volta 1 is a powerful example of our strategy to actively integrate sustainable technology into our operations. As a global port, we are taking our responsibility to pull the maritime sector into the energy transition. The Volta 1, together with the Hydrotug, Methatug, and RSD tugs, represents a tangible step towards a climate-neutral port by 2050.”

Conclusion

The launch of the Volta 1 marks a significant milestone in the Port of Antwerp-Bruges’ efforts to achieve sustainable and environmentally friendly operations. With a focus on innovation and green technologies, the port is paving the way for a more sustainable future in the maritime industry.