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Auckland ports commissions Sparky, first all-electric tug from DamenAuckland ports commissions Sparky, first all-electric tug from Damen

Damen’s first all-electric harbour tug has been named Sparky and received her Maori name, Tiaki, on delivery to the Ports of Auckland last week.

Paul Bartlett, Correspondent

August 12, 2022

1 Min Read
Damens first all electric tug Sparky Ports of Auckland
Damen

The RSD-E Tug 2513 has a bollard pull of 70 tonnes and is capable of assisting the largest vessels that call at the New Zealand port.

The electric tug is the result of six years of collaboration between the shipbuilding group and the port, which has set a target of zero emissions by 2040. The tug can undertake two or more assignments before a two-hour recharging process, Damen said.

The tug’s delivery comes as the ship/port interface is scrutinised more closely in the context of energy efficiency. The poor emissions performance of many ports and terminals can be relatively easily improved with the adoption of energy from greener sources, workboats that run on sustainable energy, and shore power for ships, experts say.

Allan D’Souza, Ports of Auckland’s general manager Marine and Multi Cargo Operations, commented: “It is wonderful to have Sparky here in Auckland and to be able to get aboard and put her through her paces. We held a blessing ceremony with local Māori iwi (tribe) Ngāti Whātua Ōrākei, as a final step before we officially start operations. As part of the blessing, Ngāti Whātua Ōrākei gave Sparky her Māori name, ‘Tiaki’, which means to care for people or place, in recognition of her role in reducing emissions and our port’s impact on the environment.”

Related:Greenfield projects catch terminal operators' eye again - Drewry

About the Author

Paul Bartlett

Correspondent

UK-based Paul Bartlett is a maritime journalist and consultant with over four decades of experience in international shipping, including ship leasing, project finance and financial due diligence procedures.

Paul is a former Editor of Seatrade magazine, which later became Seatrade Maritime Review, and has contributed to a range of Seatrade publications over the years including Seatrade’s Green Guide, a publication investigating early developments in maritime sustainability initiatives, and Middle East Workboats and Offshore Marine, focusing on the vibrant market for such vessels across that region.

In 2002, Paul set up PB Marine Consulting Ltd and has worked on a variety of consultancy projects during the last two decades. He has also contributed regular articles on the maritime sector for a range of shipping publications and online services in Europe, Asia, and the US.

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