A state-of-the-art dredger has arrived in Teesside after successful sea trials in the Netherlands. The vessel, named the Emerald Duchess, is set to operate along a 12-mile (19-kilometer) stretch of the River Tees, extending to the North Sea and the port of Hartlepool.
Latest Dredging Technology Ensures River Tees Safety
Equipped with cutting-edge technology and designed with environmental sustainability in mind, the Emerald Duchess can transport up to 2,500 tonnes and store up to 2,000 cubic meters of dredged material. PD Ports, the operator, emphasized that this dredger will play a crucial role in keeping the River Tees safe and accessible for the thousands of vessels that navigate it annually.
Environmentally Sustainable Dredging Operations
The Emerald Duchess features a hybrid power system that can switch between a battery pack, with a capacity equivalent to that of 10 Tesla cars, and fuel derived from hydrotreated vegetable oil (HVO), also known as renewable diesel. Additionally, hatches above the engine room allow for the future replacement of power units with advanced fuel cells, utilizing methanol or ethanol as the technology evolves.
Ensuring Economic Vitality on the River Tees
Frans Calje, CEO of PD Ports, highlighted the critical importance of dredging to the region’s economy. “Without dredging, economic activity on the Tees would grind to a halt within weeks, if not days,” he stated. “This service is essential to maintaining the lifeblood of the region, supporting approximately 22,000 jobs.”
Future-Proofing the Emerald Duchess for Decarbonized Fuels
Calje also noted the long-term vision for the vessel: “The Emerald Duchess has a lifespan of around 40 years, so it was essential to incorporate flexibility into its design to accommodate the remarkable advancements in decarbonized fuels. I am excited to see this vessel in action, ensuring the safety and accessibility of the River Tees for many years to come.”