Hybrid engine to reduce emissions
The Port of Long Beach is sponsoring a new hybrid engine tug boat project to reduce emissions, the port authority announced today.
"This is exactly the kind of innovation we are looking to help fund with our technology programme," said Harbor Commission President James C. Hankla.
The port will contribute $500,000 to the $8 million project, with the tug to be built by Foss Maritime.
The vessel's hybrid engine will use diesel power for normal operations but switch to an electric engine during idling, much like a hybrid car, and will be "the first of its kind in the world", according to the port authority.
Emissions from the hybrid engine will be reduced by at least 44% and fuel economy improved by 30%.
The tug will cost around $3 million than a conventional configuration and the Port of Los Angeles may also contribute to the project.
Construction was expected to begin this year and the new tug to enter into operations in 2008.
Seattle-based Foss Maritime provides tug and towage services on the US West Coast, as well as bunker barge deliveries in Los Angeles/Long Beach and San Francisco.
"We're encouraging the industry to bring us new ideas," Hankla said today. "That's just what Foss has done with the hybrid tugboat demonstration project."
The Long Beach port authority has a number of pollution control initiatives underway, including a vessel speed reduction programme and a massive expansion of its shore power facilities - all part of the San Pedro Bay Ports Clean Air Action Plan in conjunction with neighbour Los Angeles (see story links).
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| Lower emissions and better fuel economy from hybrid engine |
The port will contribute $500,000 to the $8 million project, with the tug to be built by Foss Maritime.
The vessel's hybrid engine will use diesel power for normal operations but switch to an electric engine during idling, much like a hybrid car, and will be "the first of its kind in the world", according to the port authority.
Emissions from the hybrid engine will be reduced by at least 44% and fuel economy improved by 30%.
The tug will cost around $3 million than a conventional configuration and the Port of Los Angeles may also contribute to the project.
Construction was expected to begin this year and the new tug to enter into operations in 2008.
Seattle-based Foss Maritime provides tug and towage services on the US West Coast, as well as bunker barge deliveries in Los Angeles/Long Beach and San Francisco.
"We're encouraging the industry to bring us new ideas," Hankla said today. "That's just what Foss has done with the hybrid tugboat demonstration project."
The Long Beach port authority has a number of pollution control initiatives underway, including a vessel speed reduction programme and a massive expansion of its shore power facilities - all part of the San Pedro Bay Ports Clean Air Action Plan in conjunction with neighbour Los Angeles (see story links).
Guy Wilson-Roberts | Wed Feb 28 21:38 GMT 2007