This session considered the future fuel and technology race and how do we go about commissioning a vessel in this environment?

Cansu Tuncer of Navtek Naval Technologies Inc, highlighted the benefits of battery technology and all-electric vessels including the Zeetug tug boat – which has proven technology in reducing harmful emissions having been actively in operation for 14 months. Cansu discussed the supporting Quick Charging Station (QCS) system that can re-power the vessel portside in one hour.

Looking at an alternative option for future fuel technology, Willem van der Wel discussed the steps forward Windcat Workboats have been making in integrating hydrogen fuel solutions to their fleet, including the latest hydrogen powered CTV due to be delivered in Q3 2021. With significant investment and close collaboration with key industry stakeholders Windcat and CMB Tech are working on a mobile solution to supply hydrogen fuel, to overcome current infrastructure challenges.

Leading on to infrastructure barriers, Stuart Barnes of ORE Catapult announced the work ORE Catapult and the Workboat Association have been doing for the DfT on an Innovation Roadmap and ways to decarbonise the offshore wind operations and maintenance. One of the common challenges being faced is uncertainty with the future fuel pathway - both for vessel operators and for ports in deciding which bunkering facilities to plan for and build.

Hear what our panel of experts had to say; if you missed any part of the final session of Get Set for Workboat 2050 Series 1 or would like to re-watch it, the full recording is now available here - VIEW SESSION 5 RECORDING To continue the post-event discussion and see unanswered questions, join the Maritime Journal LinkedIn group here.

Thank you to Session 5 sponsors UZMAR and supporters SMI, UKHMA and UKMPA