#India #Echandia #Electric Tugboat #Kandla Port #Kandla

Echandia's Revolutionary Battery System for India's Electric Tugboat

Echandia, a prominent name in maritime battery technology, has been chosen to deliver the battery system for India’s first fully electric tugboat. This innovative vessel will be operational at the Deendayal Port Authority, commonly known as Kandla Port, as part of the Government of India's Green Tug Transition Program. This initiative reflects India's commitment to sustainable maritime practices and aims to reduce carbon emissions in the shipping industry.

The newly designed tugboat will be powered by a robust 4.4 MWh battery system, enabling it to operate with zero emissions. This is a pivotal advancement for one of India’s busiest port hubs, which plays a crucial role in trade and commerce. The battery system is purpose-built to ensure longevity and reliability, offering a lifetime of 15 years in alignment with the operational agreement set by the Ripley Group and the Deendayal Port Authority.

Upon winning the charter tender, Ripley Group selected Kongsberg Maritime as the system integrator, while Echandia emerged victorious in a competitive bidding process to supply the battery system. A key aspect of the project's technical requirements was the need for the battery to endure up to 30,000 charge cycles over its lifespan without necessitating a mid-life replacement. Echandia's advanced technology uniquely qualifies it to meet this demand, providing peace of mind regarding the vessel’s operational capability.

Expected for delivery in the third quarter of 2026, this pioneering electric tugboat represents the inaugural vessel in a broader program that targets an additional 16 electric tugs by 2027. Looking further ahead, the plan includes the introduction of approximately 150 new electric tugs by 2040, which could bring the total count to 400 entirely new vessels. This ambitious goal demonstrates India's proactive approach towards maritime electrification and a commitment to enhancing environmental sustainability at its ports.

Torbjörn Bäck, CEO of Echandia, expressed pride in being part of this monumental project. "This initiative is a significant stride towards India’s green maritime transition, and we are thrilled to support Kandla Port and the Green Tug Transition Program in establishing a cleaner and more efficient port ecosystem," he stated.

Echandia has already established a reputable presence in India, having previously supplied battery systems for water buses in Kochi and ferries in Varanasi. The company’s strategic vision aligns with India’s needs as it embarks on an extensive path toward renewable energy and carbon reduction in maritime activities.

Rakshith Sachitanand, Senior Strategist at Echandia, remarked on the importance of this development: "As an early leader in India's maritime electrification, Echandia plays a vital role in accelerating the decarbonisation of ports and inland waterways. Collaborating with local shipbuilders is key as they aim to broaden their horizons internationally."

Echandia has quickly gained a reputation as a global leader in maritime battery systems since its inception in 2018. With over 100 systems delivered and on order for various electrification projects worldwide, the company is committed to optimizing energy efficiency while minimizing environmental impacts. Brands and stakeholders interested in the future of sustainable maritime operations will surely be watching Echandia’s progress closely, as they continue to innovate and lead in this transforming industry.

To learn more about Echandia and its initiatives, visit Echandia Official Website.