Singapore Names EON: Southeast Asia's First Fully Electric, Hydrogen-Ready Harbour Tug

Singapore has taken a significant step towards greener maritime operations with the unveiling of EON, Southeast Asia’s first fully electric harbour tug. This innovative vessel not only reduces emissions but also embodies a future-ready design capable of accommodating hydrogen fuel, marking a pivotal move in decarbonising port activities that impact daily commerce and the environment.

A Milestone in Sustainable Maritime Technology

The naming ceremony for EON took place on 23 February 2026 at PaxOcean’s new shipyard, with Mr Ang Wee Keong, Chief Executive of the Maritime and Port Authority of Singapore (MPA), as Guest of Honour. Developed by the Coastal Sustainability Alliance (CSA)—a partnership led by Kuok Maritime Group (KMG) and supported by the MPA’s Maritime Innovation and Technology Fund—the vessel represents a collaborative effort to advance sustainable maritime innovation.

Measuring 29 metres in length, EON was designed and constructed locally. It is powered by a 3MWh lithium-titanate oxide (LTO) battery system, chosen for its high power output, rapid charging capability, and excellent thermal stability, which significantly reduces fire risks. The battery system is expected to have a lifespan of 20 years. The tug delivers a strong bollard pull of 50 tonnes through two 1,500kW fixed-pitch azimuth thrusters, enabling it to perform multiple demanding berthing and unberthing operations on a single charge. This translates to at least a 30 per cent reduction in Scope 3 emissions per operation for shipowners and port users.

Future-Proof Design for Green Energy Integration

EON’s design incorporates flexibility for future fuel adaptations. Its layout allows for the integration of additional energy storage or hybrid systems that utilise emerging green fuels such as ammonia, hydrogen, or methanol fuel cells. This adaptability ensures the vessel can evolve alongside advancing clean energy technologies, maintaining its relevance in a rapidly changing maritime landscape.

Strengthening Singapore’s Green Maritime Leadership

The launch of EON sends a strong message that zero-emission harbour craft are no longer theoretical but practical and operational today. It aligns closely with Singapore’s goal that all new harbour vessels be fully electric or compatible with biofuels or net-zero fuels by 2030, underscoring the city-state’s commitment to sustainable maritime development.

For Singapore’s maritime sector, EON establishes a tangible precedent, proving that electric propulsion can meet the rigorous demands of port operations without compromising performance or safety. As Southeast Asia’s first electric harbour tug, it bolsters Singapore’s position as a pioneering green maritime hub and provides a replicable model for other regional ports seeking to reduce their environmental footprint. This advancement is a crucial step in building a sustainable maritime ecosystem that supports the future of global trade while safeguarding the environment.