Timo Vesala, the Account Manager for the Americas at ABB Marine & Ports, is at the forefront of a significant shift in maritime technology. With a solid background in mechanical engineering from Aalto University and a passion for clean technology, Vesala is steering the conversation around electrification and propulsion systems in the marine sector. This month, he shared insights on a groundbreaking project that highlights ABB’s commitment to a greener waterfront: the hybrid-electric ocean sampling vessel developed in collaboration with All American Marine for the Orange County Sanitation District.
The project, designed to meet stringent California Air Resources Board regulations, is a clear example of how the maritime industry is adapting to environmental demands. The vessel, measuring 19.8 meters, is engineered to support a vital ocean monitoring program that ensures the safety of the Pacific Ocean for both recreational activities and marine life. This initiative is not just about compliance; it’s about setting a precedent for future marine operations. The collaboration with All American Marine has proven fruitful, as it has allowed ABB to refine its approach to smaller catamaran vessels, which present unique challenges in terms of weight and space.
Vesala explains that the hybrid-electric propulsion system will allow the vessel to operate on electricity during key activities, particularly in port and during sampling operations. This shift reduces reliance on fossil fuels, paving the way for near-zero emissions during critical operational phases. While technologies like Exhaust Gas Recirculation (EGR) and Selective Catalytic Reduction (SCR) can mitigate emissions, they still rely on combustion engines. In contrast, ABB’s hybrid system leverages electricity, particularly when sourced from renewables, to significantly lower the carbon footprint.
As regulations tighten, particularly in California, the maritime sector is witnessing a ripple effect. Other states are likely to adopt similar standards, and as technology improves, the industry will see a surge in the adoption of low and zero-emission solutions. This shift is not just regulatory; it’s a market-driven evolution. The phrase “hybrid-electric” is becoming the new norm, replacing the once-popular “diesel-electric” terminology. The difference lies in the flexibility of hybrid systems, which combine diesel engines with alternative energy sources like batteries or fuel cells, allowing for more efficient operations across varying maritime scenarios.
The push for hybrid systems is particularly relevant for smaller vessels, which have historically lagged in the electrification race. Vesala notes that advancements in battery technology—smaller, lighter, and more efficient—are making it feasible to integrate these systems into smaller platforms. This is a game-changer for inland, coastal, and harbor operators who require high performance but face space and weight constraints.
As ABB continues to innovate, the focus on modular battery systems will likely accelerate the deployment of hybrid-electric solutions across diverse vessel types. The cost of batteries is decreasing, making these technologies commercially viable for a broader range of applications. The maritime sector stands at a crossroads, and the direction it takes will not only shape operational efficiencies but also redefine its environmental footprint. The collaboration between ABB and All American Marine is a testament to the potential of hybrid-electric systems, and it sets the stage for a transformative era in maritime operations.
