The Netherlands launches green tug project

The newbuild tugs will serve the North Sea for 25 years, designed for rapid response in emergencies while leading the way in vessel electrification and sustainable innovation.

“This project is not just about safety, it’s about setting a new standard in maritime sustainability,” said a Rijkswaterstaat spokesperson.

“Our goal is zero-emission readiness and resilience at sea.”

Innovative partnership

Power2Tow’s hybrid tugs will primarily operate on electric power, with green e-methanol used during towing.

To support vessel charging, ten new charging stations will be built, five at sea and five on land. This technology, not yet available on the market, is expected to drive broader adoption of clean maritime power solutions.

The tender is part of an innovation partnership, allowing selected developers to co-create and test technology before full-scale deployment. It’s a project which was first mooted back in September 2024.

If successful, Rijkswaterstaat said it will directly award contracts for construction and operation, eliminating the need for a separate procurement round.

Power2Tow is a collaboration between the Ministries of Infrastructure, Climate and Green Growth and the national Coastguard. It falls under the Dutch government’s ’Fleet Renewal program’ and is supported by the European Recovery and Resilience Plan.

The tender is now live with contract awards anticipated in mid-2026.