The Rhenus Group is spearheading a significant transformation by retrofitting two canal push boats operated by Deutsche Binnenreederei (DBR) with state-of-the-art Stage V engines, aligning with their commitment to climate protection goals. This initiative is part of a broader plan to modernize the entire fleet with the latest engine technology, bridging the gap until the development of more sustainable hydrogen-powered vessels. The first vessels undergoing this eco-friendly transformation are the canal push boats RSPSB146 and RSPSB153, originally built in the 1970s, which now feature modern diesel generators by SCANIA and Caterpillar, boasting Stage 5 exhaust gas treatment for a substantial 40 percent reduction in particulate matter emissions.
Completing the retrofitting process in about ten months, the vessels have undergone a comprehensive overhaul, including the replacement of old engines with high-performance units, revamping the engine room, and incorporating modern control systems. The enhanced engines with a rating of 740 kW represent a triple increase in performance, contributing to the fleet’s efficiency. The vessels are equipped with Silence Pack enclosures, ensuring quiet operations for the onboard crew during nighttime. While these vessels will continue to navigate the eastern German inland waterways, Rhenus remains committed to evolving its fleet for the future, emphasizing sustainability and continuously exploring avenues to reduce CO2 emissions and enhance the eco-friendliness of its shipping operations.
As part of its broader sustainability efforts, Rhenus recently introduced the first hydrogen-powered push-barge combinations, representing a low-emission fleet generation for sustainable inland waterway shipping. Additionally, the company collaborates with Arkon Shipping to design five new vessels for near-coastline goods transportation, further solidifying its commitment to prioritizing sustainability in global logistics operations. Through these initiatives, Rhenus aims to contribute to more sustainable logistics practices and make significant strides in reducing its carbon footprint.
Image source: https://www.hafen-hamburg.de/en/press/news/rhenus-modernisiert-kanalschubboote-auf-die-neueste-motorengeneration/