• ABB will provide power and propulsion systems for two electric tugs being built at Cochin Shipyard
• Ships are part of India’s Green Tug Transition Programme, which aims to replace traditional diesel-powered harbor tugs with eco-friendly alternatives
• ABB’s Onboard DC Grid™ and PEMS™ will enhance battery efficiency to manage fluctuating power requirements

ABB has secured a contract with Cochin Shipyard to deliver power and propulsion systems for two upcoming electric tugs. Scheduled for delivery to Polestar Maritime in 2027 as part of Phase 1 of India’s Green Tug Transition Programme (GTTP), the vessels will serve at Jawaharlal Nehru Port Authority (JNPA). JNPA handles approximately 50 percent of India’s total containerized cargo across major ports, making it the nation’s largest container port. The GTTP outlines a phased transition of India’s harbor tug fleet from diesel-powered vessels to sustainable alternatives, spanning five stages from 2024 to 2040.

Encompassing electrical, propulsion, automation, and digitalization solutions, ABB’s integrated supply package will ensure the e-tugs operate efficiently and reliably, supporting the GTTP’s broader goals while contributing to JNPA’s ‘Green Port’ initiative. Central to the power and propulsion setup will be ABB’s Onboard DC Grid™ power system platform and PEMS™ power and energy management system, which will optimize onboard battery utilization to handle diverse power demands. The flexible and customizable Onboard DC Grid™ enables seamless integration of energy storage systems, improves drivetrain efficiency, and extends operational range per battery charge.

Included in the agreement is ABB Ability™ Remote Diagnostic System for Marine, which will maintain the e-tugs’ performance and reliability through real-time condition monitoring and remote diagnostics.

“Incorporating electric propulsion and advanced automation into harbor tugs presents significant engineering challenges, requiring a trusted technology partner,” stated Shri Jose VJ, Chairman and Managing Director, Cochin Shipyard Limited. “ABB’s proven expertise and reliable systems positioned them as the ideal collaborator. These vessels are engineered for longevity, performance, and to showcase India’s shipyards as pioneers in maritime sustainability.”

“India’s Green Tug Transition Programme marks a pivotal move toward reducing port-related emissions,” said Rune Braastad, President of ABB’s Marine & Ports division. “Being chosen to supply the electrical, propulsion, and automation systems for JNPA and Cochin Shipyard’s inaugural electric tug vessels under the GTTP underscores the maritime sector’s confidence in ABB’s technology and our extensive marine electrification experience.”

With over seven decades of presence in the Indian market, ABB recently collaborated with Cochin Shipyard on power, propulsion, and automation systems for two hydrogen-powered container vessels for Samskip Group. Additionally, ABB has driven electrification in Asia’s short-sea shipping sector, delivering solutions for fully electric vessels in Singapore, South Korea, and Japan.

ABB’s Automation business automates, electrifies, and digitalizes industrial operations addressing critical needs—from energy, water, and material supply to goods production and distribution. With ~26,000 employees and cutting-edge technology, Automation empowers process, hybrid, and maritime industries to operate leaner and cleaner.

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