Electric tugboat Taiga launched

The 34-metre Taiga is powered by an electric propulsion system that combines e5Lab-developed large-capacity lithium-ion batteries and a diesel engine.

IHI Power Systems acted as the system integrator and supplier of the ship’s electric propulsion system. The Taiga is the first tugboat to adopt IHI Power Systems’ L-Drive propulsion system.

The system also marks the first use of ABB’s DC Grid in Japan. In combination with the large-capacity lithium-ion batteries, it delivers higher efficiency than conventional electric propulsion systems.

In addition, it can be upgraded for even greater energy efficiency by analysing parameters such as the charge-discharge power of the lithium-ion batteries and propulsion motor output, along with fuel consumption of the diesel engine.

ClassNK provided classification services, and the project team also collaborated with OSD-IMT, a group company of Damen Shipyard, for the concept design of the tugboat to improve the crew’s operating performance as well as living environment.

Initially the team considered equipping the tugboat with hydrogen fuel cells for enhanced environmental performance, and conducted a risk assessment (HAZID analysis) in cooperation with the project partners, but decided not to adopt the cells.

The Taiga is slated for completion in December 2022, and will operate mainly in the ports of Yokohama and Kawasaki as a harbour tug after delivery. In addition, installation of power supply equipment on a floating pier designed especially for the Taiga will be completed when the tug enters service.

The tug design has achieved low/zero emissions of CO2, NOx, SOx, and particulate matter (PM) as well as reduced noise and vibration for an improved working environment.