Europe’s First Fully Electric Tug BB ELECTRA Makes Waves in NorwayBB ELECTRA, Europe’s first fully electric tugboat, has been setting new standards for sustainability and performance since it began operations in Norway on April 8, 2024. Operated by the environmentally-conscious Buksér og Berging, the vessel has already logged an impressive 81 towage operations and 835 running hours in its short tenure at the Port of Oslo.Crafted at SANMAR Shipyards in Turkiye, the innovative tug is based on the exclusive ElectRA 2200SX design by Canadian naval architects Robert Allan Ltd. BB ELECTRA represents a key step in reducing emissions in the maritime industry, contributing to global efforts to combat climate change.The vessel is part of the ElectRA Series, launched in 2021, which now boasts seven operational tugs across Europe and North America. These next-generation harbour tugs are designed to minimize greenhouse gas emissions and other airborne pollutants. Recently, an eighth ElectRA tug was launched in Turkiye, set to become the first of its kind to operate in Latin America.BB ELECTRA is powered by 1,718 kWh of battery capacity, delivering a bollard pull ahead of 45 tons and a speed of 11.8 knots. Measuring 22.2 meters in length and with accommodation for a three-person crew, the tug exemplifies cutting-edge sustainable design.This is not Buksér og Berging’s first eco-friendly initiative. The operator has a proven track record, having previously commissioned LNG-fueled tugs BORGOY and BOKN, and Tier III emissions-compliant sister tugs BAMSE and BOB, all built by Sanmar Shipyards.Rüçhan Çıvgın, Commercial Director of Sanmar Shipyards, emphasized the company’s commitment to sustainability:
"We are proud to lead the way in pioneering eco-friendly maritime solutions. Our electric tugboats have paved the way in North America, Europe, and now Latin America. These are transformative times for the industry, and we’re actively designing and building tugs powered by alternative fuels to shape a sustainable future."Sanmar Shipyards continues to prioritize innovation and environmental stewardship, solidifying its position as a leader in the tug and towing industry’s green transition.
"We are proud to lead the way in pioneering eco-friendly maritime solutions. Our electric tugboats have paved the way in North America, Europe, and now Latin America. These are transformative times for the industry, and we’re actively designing and building tugs powered by alternative fuels to shape a sustainable future."Sanmar Shipyards continues to prioritize innovation and environmental stewardship, solidifying its position as a leader in the tug and towing industry’s green transition.
