Jan De Nul Orders First Plug-In Hybrid Dredging Vessel

Belgian marine services company Jan De Nul has announced its order of an innovative plug-in hybrid dredging vessel which is set to be constructed at Goa Shipyard Ltd. 

The vessel - which will be a trailing suction hopper dredger - represents the next generation of low-carbon hoppers and will be designed to primarily operate in small harbours; especially harbours located in highly-populated areas. 

Key characteristics of the hopper include a high-degree of manoeuvrability, low emissions and almost silent operation.

At present, Jan De Nul has contracted for a single vessel that will have a hull length of 79m and a hopper capacity of 2000 cubic metres. It is expected that the new vessel will be delivered within the next 24 months. Jan De Nul also has an option to order a second sister vessel.

Commenting on the innovative new vessel, Jan De Nul’s Director of Newbuilding, Jan Van De Velde, said: 

“It’s a small hopper with big capabilities. Tailor-made to perform in small harbours, agile and flexible. With very big ambitions in the field of durability. As a DC hybrid plug-in the vessel is highly innovative, with a big potential to reduce our carbon footprint. Another added value to our versatile fleet”.

B K Upadhyay, the CMD at Goa Shipyard Ltd, commented on the new hopper vessel, saying: 

“So far, GSL has exported defence platforms to various countries and has emerged as the largest exporter of defence platforms from India. This prestigious deal with a European client is a significant step to diversify ourselves into the global commercial shipbuilding market. With an excellent track record of execution and delivery, for which GSL is known for, I am confident that we will continue with our legacy of delivering high quality ships well within the delivery timelines”.

Jan De Nul’s order of a plug-in hybrid dredging vessel forms part of a broader trend that is seeing an increasing number of harbour-based craft becoming electrified. For example, in recent months the Port of Singapore announced its intention to trial electric vessel charging concepts around the Port’s Marina South Pier. In a similar vein, China’s Cosco Shipping has announced its intention to build and operate two battery-powered container ships. 

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