Port of Antwerp-Bruges Launches Volta 1, Europe’s First Fully Electric Tugboat

The Port of Antwerp-Bruges has officially launched Volta 1, Europe’s first fully electric tugboat, in a major step toward its goal of achieving climate-neutral operations by 2050. Developed with Damen Shipyards, the new tug joins a growing fleet of alternative-fuel vessels including the Hydrotug (hydrogen-powered) and Methatug (methanol-powered), reinforcing the port’s commitment to greener maritime logistics.

The Volta 1 is part of a wider fleet renewal program that also includes five newly commissioned energy-efficient RSD (Reversed Stern Drive) tugs. These modern vessels replace older models and help reduce emissions from the port’s tug operations, which currently account for 85% of its port-related CO₂ output.

With a 2,782 MWh lithium-titanium-oxide battery system, Volta 1 offers 12 hours of fully electric operation and can be recharged in just two hours using a 1.5 MW charging station. Its 70-ton bollard pull delivers the same performance as a diesel-powered tug, with zero emissions and reduced noise.

“The Volta 1 is a powerful example of our strategy to actively integrate sustainable technology into our operations. As a global port, we are taking our responsibility to pull the maritime sector into the energy transition. The Volta 1, together with the Hydrotug, Methatug and RSD tugs, represents a tangible step towards a climate-neutral port by 2050,” said Jacques Vandermeiren, CEO, Port of Antwerp-Bruges.

“Achieving this European first in the year when we are also celebrating 150 years of tug service makes it both symbolic and historic. It shows how our port and region continue to invest in sustainable innovation. Even in challenging times, we resolutely choose the future and take a leadership role,” added Johan Klaps, Vice Mayor for the Port and Economy, City of Antwerp / President of the board, Port of Antwerp-Bruges.

“We are delighted and very honoured to have been able to deliver the latest additions to the Port of Antwerp-Bruges tug fleet: five brand new and efficient diesel tugs equipped with after-treatment systems and an innovative electric tug, all of type RSD2513. This delivery is perfectly in line with our ongoing commitment to better ships and technological progress. We are delighted that this allows us to contribute to achieving the port’s ambitious sustainability targets,” said Vincent Maes, Sales Manager Benelux, Damen.

The Volta 1 and its sister vessels were built in Vietnam starting in 2023 and traveled over 10,000 km before arriving in Antwerp in November 2024. Final preparations included technical setup, charging infrastructure, and crew training.

Volta 1 Specifications