China's first hydrogen-electric tugboat to boost green port operations

China's first hydrogen-electric tugboat has begun regular operations at Qingdao Port in Shandong Province, marking a major step forward in the adoption of clean energy for maritime logistics.

The vessel, which entered service in June, adopts a hybrid power system combining hydrogen fuel cells and liquid-cooled lithium batteries. It can operate for more than 12 hours at a speed of 9 knots, significantly reducing noise and vibration compared with conventional diesel-powered tugboats.

According to Qingdao Port, the hydrogen-electric tugboat is expected to cut carbon dioxide emissions by about 1,500 metric tonnes annually. It also features a split wheelhouse with dual control stations for improved visibility and maneuverability, along with domestically developed technologies such as Beidou satellite navigation and an intelligent shore-based charging system.

Qingdao Port, one of China's busiest ports, reported a throughput exceeding 700 million tonnes so far this year. The deployment of the new tugboat supports the port's broader strategy to reduce its carbon footprint.