ABB has secured a major contract from Cochin Shipyard to supply advanced power and propulsion systems for two electric harbor tugs being built under Phase 1 of India’s ambitious Green Tug Transition Programme (GTTP).

 

Scheduled for delivery to Polestar Maritime in 2027, the vessels will operate at Jawaharlal Nehru Port Authority (JNPA), India’s largest container port, which handles nearly half of the country’s containerized cargo traffic across major ports. 

 

The project marks a significant milestone in India’s drive to decarbonize port operations and modernize its harbor fleet.

 

The GTTP aims to replace conventional diesel-powered tugs with cleaner alternatives through a phased rollout between 2024 and 2040. ABB’s technology package will play a central role in enabling the new electric vessels to operate efficiently, reliably, and with lower emissions.

 

Under the contract, ABB will provide a complete suite of electrical, propulsion, automation, and digitalization solutions. At the heart of the system will be ABB’s Onboard DC Grid power platform and PEMS power and energy management system, designed to maximize battery utilization and efficiently manage fluctuating power demands during tug operations.

 

The modular Onboard DC Grid platform supports seamless integration of energy storage systems while improving drivetrain efficiency and extending vessel operating range between charges.

 

ABB will also supply its ABB Ability Remote Diagnostic System for Marine, enabling condition monitoring and remote troubleshooting to enhance vessel uptime and operational performance.

 

“Integrating electric propulsion and advanced automation into harbor tugs is a complex engineering undertaking, and selecting the right technology partner was critical,” said Shri Jose VJ, Chairman and Managing Director, Cochin Shipyard Limited. 

 

“ABB’s proven systems and deep experience in this space made them the clear choice. We are building these vessels to last, to perform, and to demonstrate that Indian shipyards are ready to lead the industry’s green transition.”

 

The project underscores growing momentum behind India’s maritime decarbonization efforts, particularly at JNPA, which is pursuing ‘Green Port’ status through cleaner technologies and sustainable operations.

 

“India’s Green Tug Transition Programme represents a decisive step the nation has taken towards reducing emissions from port operations,” said Rune Braastad, President, ABB’s Marine & Ports division. 

 

“Being selected to provide the electrical, propulsion, and automation systems for JNPA and Cochin Shipyard’s first electric Tug vessels as per India’s GTTP program reflects the trust that India’s maritime sector has placed in ABB’s technology and our long track record in marine electrification.”

 

The latest contract builds on ABB’s long-standing presence in India, spanning more than 75 years. Most recently, the company partnered with Cochin Shipyard to provide power, propulsion, and automation systems for two hydrogen-fueled container vessels being built for Samskip Group.

 

ABB has also been a key contributor to the electrification of short-sea shipping across Asia, supplying technology for fully electric vessels operating in Singapore, South Korea, and Japan.

 

As India accelerates efforts to green its maritime infrastructure, the ABB-Cochin Shipyard partnership positions the country’s first generation of electric harbor tugs as a flagship project in the transformation of port operations.