Atlantic Towing Limited's platform supply vessel Atlantic Shrike has achieved an 11% fuel reduction across all operations following the installation of Vard Electro's SeaQ Energy Storage System, according to operational data released by the companies.

The diesel-electric vessel, which operates on the Grand Banks off Newfoundland and Labrador, recorded 362 tonnes of CO2 reductions in 2024 after the battery system retrofit was completed in collaboration with Vard Electro, a subsidiary of the Fincantieri-owned Vard Group.

Atlantic Towing, a subsidiary of J.D. Irving Limited, embarked on the retrofit project in 2021 to upgrade the 85.6-metre vessel without compromising operational reliability. The Atlantic Shrike, built in 2017, has a beam of 22 metres and a dead weight capacity of 4,200 tonnes.

The SeaQ Energy Storage System was designed for integration with the vessel's existing power and automation systems, with installation carried out during planned docking periods to minimise operational impact. Vard Electro's Canadian service team led the project execution and provided crew training on system operation.

"This project demonstrates how we, as a system integrator, bring together technical insight and operational understanding to create tailored retrofit solutions," said Francisco Lima, VP Retrofit and Service at Vard Electro. "By designing a SeaQ ESS setup that matched Atlantic Shrike's operational profile, we ensured real-world impact."

The battery system provides advantages during low-load operations including harbour manoeuvres, transit, and docking by supplying transient loads and reducing the need for multiple generators running at inefficient low loads, according to Vard Electro.

Additional benefits reported include reduced engine noise improving crew comfort, lower engine running hours extending maintenance intervals, and enhanced working conditions in the engine room.

Dan Vyselaar, Director of Engineering & Asset Management at Atlantic Towing, said: "The competence and collaboration shown by the Vard Electro team was impressive. They understood our operational needs and delivered a solution that works — both technically and commercially."

The collaboration has reportedly strengthened the partnership between the companies, with Atlantic Towing now relying on Vard Electro for a larger share of their aftermarket services.

Vard Electro, headquartered in Norway with facilities and service hubs worldwide, provides marine electrical systems covering design, engineering, installation, and lifetime services through its SeaQ brand portfolio.

Atlantic Towing Limited, based in Saint John, New Brunswick, specialises in port and terminal towage, coastal and offshore towing, and offshore oil and gas exploration support as part of the J.D. Irving Limited family of companies.