The Freeport of Riga Authority’s capital company, “LVR Flote,” has signed a contract with Baltic Workboats AS to acquire a state-of-the-art multifunctional hybrid ice class vessel, with 50% of the costs covered by the European Climate, Infrastructure, and Environment Agency CINEA. Expected to be commissioned by end-2024, the vessel not only supports port functions but also enhances Latvia’s military capabilities by assisting the Border Guard, Navy, and Coast Guard.
Aligned with the Freeport of Riga’s strategy for a sustainable shipping infrastructure, this acquisition is a key step in “LVR Flote’s” commitment to modernize the port’s fleet with renewable energy technologies by 2026. Hybrid vessels play a crucial role in reducing emissions, contributing to climate neutrality. The new vessel, more efficient and maneuverable than existing icebreakers, will operate in shallow areas, providing crucial support for various tasks, from icebreaking to pollution collection.
Baltic Workboats AS will implement the project, constructing the vessel at Damen Shipyards Hardinxveld in the Netherlands and adapting it to “LVR Flote’s” requirements in Estonia. Key technical features include a hybrid propulsion system, compliance with ice class 1C, and a battery system for one-hour electric navigation autonomy. The project, “Acquisition of a modern and efficient icebreaker for ice breaking operations in the Gulf of Riga,” is co-funded by CINEA under the Transport Military Mobility Program, with a contractual investment of EUR 10.498 million and CINEA co-financing of EUR 5.076 million.
Image source: https://rop.lv/en/news/port-riga-renews-technical-fleet-boosting-military-mobility