Tristar Group, a Dubai-based global business, has taken a significant step towards decarbonising maritime transport by engaging Turkey’s Akdeniz Shipyard to construct a hybrid bunker barge for the UAE
The bunker barge, with a capacity of 750 m3, will incorporate diesel generators as a backup power source for the electric system. Notably, the vessel will lack a traditional funnel, utilising the saved deck space to accommodate a substantial onboard battery. When the generators are activated, any flue gases emitted will be discharged underwater, resulting in a significant reduction of greenhouse gas emissions.
This innovative design, along with the vessel’s powertrain, will greatly diminish carbon emissions, particularly when compared with conventional diesel propulsion methods. Through well-planned operations, it is projected carbon emissions will be reduced by more than 50%.
The construction of the hybrid bunker barge will take place at the Akdeniz Shipyard in Adana, the largest shipyard in Turkey and the wider eastern Mediterranean region in terms of both area and capacity. In addition to its bunkering capabilities, the barge will provide essential supplies and provisions to vessels stopping at the anchorage off Fujairah Port.
Tristar Group, which provides fuel logistics solutions to oil companies and intergovernmental organisations, is committed to its integrated energy logistics platform. This platform encompasses road and maritime transport, warehousing, fuel farm management, commercial aviation refuelling, and turnkey fuel supply operations.
“We are creating another opportunity to pioneer green technology in an environment that has been familiar and fruitful for us, for many years,” Tristar Group chief executive Eugene Mayne, said during a contract signing in Dubai with Akdeniz Shipyard owner Metin Akbasoglu.
“As a prominent player in the global maritime sector, it is obligatory for Tristar to be willing to take the first steps towards any feasible decarbonisation, and create sectoral change,” Mr Mayne explained. “As port infrastructure continues to develop in support of using electric barges for coastal operations, we are optimistic this bold move will encourage the local maritime industry to follow suit.”
Source: Riviera
