The American Bureau of Shipping is to launch an electrification center in Singapore to support maritime decarbonization projects. The ABS Electrification Center will house an array of ABS engineers and technical specialists to support electrification projects in the Asia-Pacific and internationally by implementing advanced technology and ABS’s knowledge of simulation and modeling.
ABS has also stated that the facility will be used to support the electrification of harbor and coastal craft aligned with the Port Authority of Singapore (MPA) initiatives. Projects at the site will include research and development, design review, new-builds and retrofits.
“While many in the shipping industry will be equipped to use alternative fuels, additional alternative energy options, particularly electrification, are needed to help the industry achieve net zero by 2050,” explained John McDonald, president and chief operating officer, ABS.
“ABS is proud to invest in this new center and use our deep industry knowledge to enable research to improve emerging battery technologies, fuel cells and shore power connection technologies to understand the risks of electrified vessels and to support infrastructure planning as ports become increasingly electrified and connected.”
“We welcome the set-up of the ABS Electrification Center in Singapore,” added Teo Eng Dih, chief executive, MPA. “This complements our efforts to electrify the domestic craft sector, adding to the local knowledge and expertise on evolving electrification technologies and standards. ABS’s contribution will help to increase the vibrancy of our marine electrification ecosystem and community serving the needs of Singapore and our region.”
At present, ABS is working with maritime companies on a multitude of advanced electrification initiatives, including Seatrium’s proposals for a battery-powered hybrid tug fleet. The center is also working with Wartsila to design a hybrid electric LNG carrier and on additional projects with other companies within the sector.