Atlantic Shrike retrofit achieves 11% fuel and emissions savings
Fuel savings of around 10-15% can be expected from battery retrofits like that on Atlantic Shrike (Source: Vard)
Atlantic Towing Limited has reported significant efficiency gains following the retrofit of its platform supply vessel Atlantic Shrike with Vard Electro’s SeaQ Energy Storage System. The vessel has achieved an 11% reduction in fuel use across all operations, with 362 tonnes of CO₂ savings recorded during 2024.
The 85.6m-long diesel-electric PSV was built in 2017 and operates primarily on the Grand Banks off Newfoundland and Labrador. The battery retrofit was developed to cut fuel consumption, reduce greenhouse gas emissions and improve onboard conditions by compensating for rapid fluctuations in power demand.
Vard Electro acted as equipment supplier and system integrator, delivering the installation during planned docking periods to avoid disruption. Its local Canadian team led the project, which included integration with existing automation and propulsion systems. Crew training was provided to optimise the operation of the new system.
In addition to reducing fuel use, the retrofit has lowered noise and vibration on board, improved crew comfort, and cut engine running hours. The company said this should extend maintenance intervals and improve working conditions in the engine room.
The project follows growing industry interest in hybrid and battery-assisted offshore vessels, with owners seeking both compliance with emissions regulations and operational cost savings.
