Boskalis vessel runs on 100% bio-fuel

Dredging and offshore contractor Royal Boskalis Westminster has announced plans to operate what it said is the world’s first dredging vessel to run on 100% bio-fuel oil.

The Willem van Oranje, a trailing suction hopper dredger with a capacity of 12,000m³ and a total installed power of 13,870kW, now runs on a sulphur-free residual fuel made from used cooking oil. 

According to Boskalis, the bio-fuel contains no fossil fuels and produces 90% less carbon.

The fuel was developed as part of the company’s Boskalis On Bio programme, which aims to reduce the amount of carbon emissions produced by its vessels and dry earthmoving equipment. It was launched in 2015 in cooperation with engine manufacturer Wärtsilä and GoodFuels.

The specialist maritime services provider said the Willem van Oranje, which can dredge up to a depth of 62m, will now be deployed on worldwide maritime infrastructure projects.