SAAM Towage, a Chile-based company, is making strides in the maritime industry with the upcoming deployment of the first battery electric tug in Latin America. The tug, named Trapananda, is a 25-m harbour tug built by Sanmar Shipyards to Robert Allan Ltd's design, featuring a large battery capacity of 3,616 kWh. This innovative vessel is set to operate in Puerto Chacabuco, Chile, aiming to reduce fuel consumption and emissions in the Aysen region. SAAM Towage's sustainability and development director, Pablo Cáceres, highlighted the tug's capabilities, including its ability to handle consecutive shiphandling and docking tasks with its battery power, supported by diesel gensets for backup. The company has previously operated electric tugs in Canada, showcasing significant reductions in carbon footprint and operating costs. At a recent conference in Belgium, Mr. Cáceres shared impressive statistics, indicating a 72% reduction in carbon intensity index by the end of 2024. The success of these electric tugs has paved the way for more sustainable practices in the maritime sector. Sanmar Shipyards, the builder behind Trapananda, continues to lead in constructing battery-powered vessels with several more in the pipeline. The industry's focus on sustainability is further underscored by events like the upcoming Riviera Maritime Hybrid, Electric & Hydrogen Fuel Cells Conference & Exhibition, emphasizing the growing interest in alternative energy sources in the marine industry.