Svitzer deploys battery-hybrid tug in the Port of Helsingborg – a step towards net zero
Svitzer Balder, Svitzer’s first tugboat with full electric propulsion capabilities, will be deployed in the Port of Helsingborg in June. Featuring a hybrid system, shore power charging, and a battery capacity of 1,818 kWh, the vessel is expected to operate with near-zero emissions – marking a key milestone in Svitzer’s green transition.
Global towage provider Svitzer has committed to reaching climate neutrality by 2040. A significant step in this direction is the introduction of the Svitzer Balder – designed by Robert Allan Ltd. and built by Sanmar Shipyard – the first tugboat in the region with full electric capabilities.
“If we are to reach our goal, we need to act now. Electrification is not the only solution, but it’s a clear and actionable step we can take today,” says Mathias Jonasson, Cluster MD Scandinavia at Svitzer.
Svitzer Balder is powered by a high-capacity battery system (1,818 kWh), supported by a diesel generator. The tug is expected to operate primarily on electricity. The Port of Helsingborg – with short duty cycles and available shore power – offers optimal conditions.
“The Port of Helsingborg has been a key enabler in this project. Without the necessary charging infrastructure, we would not have been able to place the vessel here,” Jonasson says.
The Port also welcomes the investment
“Svitzer is a valued partner, enabling us to maintain a high level of service to the container lines calling at the port. Their decision to place their first electric tugboat here underlines their strong sustainability commitment,” says Anders Paulsson, Key Account Manager at the Port of Helsingborg.
Svitzer Balder is expected to reduce emissions by up to 700 tonnes of CO₂ per year compared to conventional diesel-powered tugs. The vessel also strengthens Svitzer’s operational capacity in the Øresund region.
“With another vessel in our fleet, we gain greater flexibility and responsiveness to serve our customers with even higher precision,” says Jonasson.
About Svitzer Balder
- Tug type: Azimuth Stern Drive (ASD)
- Design: Robert Allan Ltd.
- Built by: Sanmar Shipyard
- Length: Approx. 25 metres
- Propulsion: Hybrid (battery + diesel generator)
- Battery capacity: 1,818 kWh
- Bollard pull: Approx. 70 tonnes
- Home port: Helsingborg
- Crew: 3 persons per shift
- Estimated emissions reduction: Up to 700 tonnes CO₂/year
About Svitzer
Svitzer is a leading global towage and marine services provider. Its core business is assisting large seaborne vessels in manoeuvring in and out of ports and terminals to berth and unberth. With more than 450 vessels, Svitzer’s services play a crucial role in critical port infrastructure. Svitzer was founded in 1833 and serves approximately 2,000 customers in more than 140 ports and 40 terminals across 37 countries. Read more on www.svitzer.com.
