SAAM Towage presented its progress in sustainable maritime operations at Tug Technology 2025, focusing on its pioneering work with electric tugboats under the Dynamo Project.
This initiative began in early 2024 with the deployment of two electric tugs at the Port of Vancouver in Canada. A third unit is slated to enter service in Puerto Chacabuco, Chilean Patagonia, later this year.
Pablo Cáceres, SAAM Towage’s Sustainability and Development Manager, said that the experience in Vancouver confirms that maritime electromobility is both technically and economically viable, while it brings substantial benefits to customers and the environment alike.
Despite the positive outcomes, the transition presented various challenges, including vessel design, infrastructure for battery charging, crew training, and ensuring financial sustainability.
SAAM Towage overcame these hurdles through strategic partnerships with Robert Allan Ltd. for vessel design and Sanmar Shipyards for construction.
The results from the first year of electric tug operations have been notable. The carbon intensity index dropped by 72%, and the company anticipates an additional 90% reduction by the second year.
Additionally, operational costs for the electric fleet have proven to be 70% lower than for comparable diesel-powered tugs.
