Lobster Fishing Fleet Goes Electric

Challenge

• Emissions: The fleet produced a significant amount of CO2 emissions, contributing to environmental challenges and imposing financial burdens on fishers.
• Technology Integration:  Incorporating state-of-the-art battery-electric propulsion systems into existing vessels while maintaining cost-effectiveness presented a complex technical challenge.
• Government Support: Securing essential government backing and developing supportive policies were crucial for the widespread adoption of zero-emission technology across the fleet.

Solution

• Innovation and Collaboration: Allswater brought together its diverse team of Naval Architects, Engineers, specialists, and project partners to develop a comprehensive strategy. This collaborative approach focused on:

• Designing and Integrating Technology: Allswater engineered and integrated advanced battery-electric propulsion systems into existing lobster vessels, ensuring that the transition to zero-emission technology was both feasible and cost-effective.
• Engaging with Stakeholders: Allswater worked closely with government bodies to advocate for supportive policies and financial incentives that would facilitate the adoption of sustainable technology across the industry.
• Sustainability and Efficiency: The team’s approach not only aimed to reduce the environmental impact of the lobster fleet but also to enhance the long-term financial sustainability for fishers by lowering operating costs.

Results

• Positive Impact: By taking an all-in, turnkey approach, Allswater formed a team of internal and external specialists to ensure efficient resource utilization, keeping the mobilization on time and on budget.
• Sustainability: Our efforts to electrify Nova Scotia’s lobster fishing fleet align with environmental sustainability goals, reducing emissions and overall fuel costs.
• Government Involvement: Allswater’s and our partners’ advocacy for government support has the potential to shape the future of marine decarbonization in Canada.

At Allswater, we are driven by a vision of a sustainable and innovative marine industry. The electrification study is just one example of our commitment to engineering excellence and environmental responsibility. Contact us to learn more about our work or to discuss how we can collaborate on your next project.

Photo credits: Heather Grant