The nation’s first fully electric-powered ship assist tugboat is now operating in the Port of San Diego.
Logistics, marine and energy solutions firm Crowley Maritime announced June 25 that it has christened the eWolf, an 82-foot vessel constructed by Master Boat Builders in Coden, Alaska, that can deliver 70 tons of bollard pull and includes a “fully integrated electrical package for battery energy storage by ABB with advanced technology for mariner safety.”
The eWolf is able to operate fully on electric power daily with the help of a new microgrid shoreside charging station.
“The eWolf is a historic milestone in the maritime industry and Crowley’s legacy and underscores our company’s commitment to serve as global sustainability leaders and innovators,” Crowley Chairman-CEO Tom Crowley said. “The all-electric tugboat is the most technologically advanced vessel of its kind, and eWolf will help our customers and communities reach their decarbonization goals while delivering capabilities that strengthen our vital supply chain.”
San Diego Board of Port Commissioners Chair Frank Urtasun called the electric tugboat “a game changer.”
“It checks all the boxes by providing environmental, economic, and operational benefits for our communities and maritime industry,” Urtasun said.
The California Air Resources Board is among the agencies that partnered with Crowley on the eWolf.
“Impacted portside communities like Barrio Logan and National City breathe more diesel pollution than 90% of California communities and children experience up to five times more asthma hospitalizations,” CARB Board Member Diane Takvorian said. “The eWolf will contribute significantly to creating a healthy environment for all communities.”
