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Green Power for the Harbour: Transforming Singapore’s Harbour Craft Ecosystem

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marinEV, a Yinson GreenTech business, is spearheading the transformation of Singapore’s harbour craft ecosystem, aiming to replace traditional internal combustion engines with electric alternatives. Their electric harbour crafts (e-HCs), aim to reduce carbon emissions and noise pollution, enhancing operational efficiency and environmental sustainability. marinEV’s innovations are set to shape the maritime sector’s green transition by integrating advanced technologies that foster safer, more efficient operations while attracting young talent to the industry.

Jan-Viggo Johansen, marinEV’s Managing Director

We sat down with Jan-Viggo, Managing Director, from marinEV to understand how e-HCs can contribute to the efforts of Singapore’s coastal sustainability, and to attract young talents into the Maritime Singapore.

Can you tell us more about e-HCs, and what makes them different from conventional harbour crafts?

 

The main difference between an e-HC and a traditional ICE (Internal Combustion Engine) HC is that an e-HC produces zero carbon emissions. This makes a massive difference not only to the pollution levels locally, but also a safe working environment for the crew working onboard the vessels. Not only does an internal combustion engine has hundreds of moving parts – requiring a high level of maintenance, but it also causes vibration and sound pollution onboard. As such, an e-HC is creating a clean, silent, and safe work environment for the crew.

 

In designing our electric harbour crafts (e-HCs) for the Port of Singapore, we went beyond simply replicating existing models. Instead of merely substituting internal combustion engines with batteries and electric motors, we focused on future-ready designs. This included optimizing the hull for maximum energy efficiency and improving user-friendliness. We also integrated advanced technologies to provide e-HC operators with data-driven tools, enhancing operational efficiency and increasing safety at sea.

 

We believe that incorporating state-of-the-art technologies into a maritime environment will not only revolutionize the operational efficiency, but also attract young talent into the maritime industry.

How will e-HCs impact green/sustainable shipping in Singapore?

 

The introduction of electric harbour crafts (e-HCs) in the Port of Singapore marks a significant step towards reducing local carbon and noise pollution. This shift not only promises a decarbonized port operation but also fosters a healthier work environment for the e-HC crew members. By cutting down on the port’s carbon emissions, these e-HCs tackle both Scope 1 emissions, which are direct emissions from owned or controlled sources, and Scope 3 emissions, which are indirect emissions incurred by shipowners through the receipt of goods and services at the port.

 

Furthermore, the technological enhancements equipped on the e-HCs will refine the efficiency of last-mile deliveries within the supply chain. By integrating ‘just-in-time’ delivery principles, these advancements aim to minimize waiting times, streamline deliveries, and boost overall energy efficiency, effectively connecting land and sea logistics.

What are some key factors in encouraging more shipping companies to transition their fleet to more green/sustainable shipping alternatives?

 

By integrating e-HCs as part of the shipping companies’ last-mile delivery options, the shipping companies will address the reduction of their Scope 3 carbon emissions. Collaboration among all stakeholders is key to unlocking a cleaner future for our oceans, and we are committed to working with maritime industry leaders to achieve a truly sustainable maritime landscape.

What does green and sustainable shipping mean to marinEV, and why is it so important to you and the industry?

 

In marinEV, our vision is to become the leading and most trusted provider of maritime electrification solutions in Southeast Asia. As such, our approach is holistic – to provide solutions and build the necessary ecosystem to accelerate the transition to net zero. Throughout our journey, it has been of utmost importance to closely collaborate with industry stakeholders and regulators and to establish strategic partnerships with like-minded partners to develop and deploy accessible and sustainable solutions.

Apart from e-HCs, what are some other green/sustainable shipping initiatives (i.e. decarbonisation projects) that marinEV is working on?

 

We are actively investing in innovative green businesses and establishing strategic partnerships to create a comprehensive ecosystem of green assets and infrastructure. Our goal is to support companies in achieving their net-zero ambitions.

A conceptualised image of the ‘Hydromover’

To date, we have introduced two electric harbour crafts (e-HCs) to the Port of Singapore. First, the ‘Hydromover’ is Singapore’s inaugural fully electric cargo vessel. This 18.5-meter catamaran can carry 25 tons of cargo and accommodate 8 passengers. It features swappable batteries, which not only reduce docking time but also extend battery life to at least 10 years through onshore slow charging. In designing the e-HC, we prioritized a lightweight structure for enhanced energy efficiency, incorporating innovations such as lightweight 3D printed seats to optimize the vessel’s design.

A conceptualised image of the ‘Hydroglyder’

Secondly, the ‘Hydroglyder,’ is Singapore’s first fully electric passenger craft equipped with hydrofoil technology. This 12-meter trimaran, built from lightweight composite materials, comfortably transports up to 12 passengers. Hydrofoil technology slashes power consumption by 50-80% compared to traditional crafts, thereby cutting energy costs by up to 90%.

 

Both vessels boast cutting-edge systems for remote and autonomous navigation, enhancing safety and operational efficiency. They also feature solar panels that contribute an additional 10% to the battery capacity.

 

We are collaborating closely with the Maritime Port Authorities (MPA) of Singapore to set standards for a megawatt charging infrastructure, paving the way for the rapid charging of larger electric vessels.

 

Furthermore, we are exploring new concepts for harbour tugs and fully electric ferries. As the market for port decarbonization

Lastly, what are some tips you have for companies to stay relevant in the green transition?

 

To expedite and achieve a net-zero carbon maritime industry, three critical areas require attention:

 

  1. Standardization: The lack of uniform standards for marine electric vehicles (EVs), particularly regarding batteries and charging infrastructure, presents a significant challenge. Initiatives by the Maritime Port Authority (MPA) to standardize these elements, alongside robust collaboration among industry leaders, are vital for expanding and scaling the marine EV market.

 

  1. Adoption of New Technology: Transitioning from traditional internal combustion engine (ICE) vessels to those powered by clean fuels not only supports the decarbonization of the marine sector but also introduces more technologically advanced vessels. This shift necessitates adaptations in areas such as data-driven decision-making, digitalization of manual processes, enhanced maintenance regimes, and competence building for the crew.

 

  1. Financial Confidence: While electrification – especially for short sea shipping – is the most efficient solution, exemplified by our ‘Hydromover’ which cuts emissions and operational costs by up to 50%, it also requires new financing approaches. More technologically advanced vessels, though initially more costly, eventually lower the total cost of ownership due to reduced operational and maintenance expenses.

 

In summary, to effectively transition to a cleaner maritime industry, it is crucial to:

  • Invest in technology and talent for sustainable, long-term benefits.
  • Foster industry-wide collaboration and adopt environmentally sustainable practices.
  • Ensure economic viability while upholding environmental responsibilities.

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