The news that Port of Antwerp-Bruges has introduced the world’s first hydrogen-powered tug after an earlier order for new vessels is the latest signal to tug operators that ports are heading for greener operations.

Electric tugs, either all-electric or electric hybrid, are now attracting firm orders and deliveries. Again they are role specific, and while local charging facilities have to be established and the local grid supply be up to the task, the ‘raw material’ itself is widely available.