In a groundbreaking stride toward eco-conscious maritime innovation, Tsuneishi Shipbuilding has officially launched Japan’s first-ever hydrogen dual-fuel tugboat. Debuting from the shipbuilder’s Tsuneishi Factory in Fukuyama this March, the vessel represents a leap toward decarbonizing the high-powered tugboat industry—one of the more challenging segments to green due to its demanding performance requirements.
At 38 meters in length and under 300 gross tons, the vessel packs serious power with twin 12-cylinder dual-fuel engines capable of producing 4,400 horsepower. These cutting-edge engines operate using a blend of high-pressure hydrogen gas and conventional marine fuel, offering flexible propulsion while dramatically cutting emissions. According to Tsuneishi engineers, this dual-fuel system is expected to slash CO₂ emissions by around 60% compared to conventional tugs.
But the innovation doesn’t stop at propulsion. The entire hull is constructed from JGreeX green steel, a next-generation material developed by JFE Steel Corporation that significantly reduces carbon output during production. It’s the first time this environmentally friendly steel has been used throughout a commercial vessel of this class, making it a true flagship of sustainable shipbuilding.
With a hydrogen storage capacity of 250 kg and high-pressure delivery systems onboard, the tugboat can maintain full operational capability even when running primarily on hydrogen. In case hydrogen systems fail, the engines can seamlessly transition to 100% traditional marine fuel, ensuring safety and reliability are never compromised.
"Designing a high-powered vessel with zero compromise on safety or performance was a complex challenge," said Mr. Nishijima Takanori, General Manager of Tsuneishi’s Design Division. "This launch is not just a first—it’s a blueprint for future fuel vessels. Hydrogen, LNG, methanol—we're investing in them all."
This development is part of a broader effort by Japan and its maritime leaders to achieve carbon neutrality across industries. The International Maritime Organization (IMO) has called for a 50% reduction in shipping emissions by 2050, and Japan is answering the call with homegrown technology and innovation.
From container vessels to offshore support craft, hydrogen and other alternative fuels are being aggressively explored as solutions to one of the world’s most stubborn emissions sources: heavy shipping.
