The Atlantic Shrike, which supports offshore operations off Newfoundland and Labrador, now uses Vard Electro’s SeaQ Energy Storage System to optimize performance during low-load operations such as harbor transit and docking. By reducing reliance on diesel generators during these phases, the vessel improves fuel efficiency and minimizes emissions, while still maintaining full operational capability.
This retrofit is part of a wider push to decarbonize aging fleets without the need for full vessel replacement. With tightening maritime emissions rules and rising fuel costs, upgrades like these offer a practical path forward.
Operational outcomes go beyond emissions. Crew members have reported a quieter, smoother onboard experience due to reduced engine noise and vibration. With fewer running hours on engines, the vessel also benefits from longer maintenance intervals, helping reduce downtime and lifecycle costs.
Atlantic Towing launched the retrofit project in 2021 with a clear vision to improve energy performance without compromising uptime or reliability.
The partnership with Vard Electro extended beyond basic supply and install, with the system tailored to match the Atlantic Shrike's operational profile, working closely with Atlantic Towing’s engineering team throughout the design and commissioning phases. The Canadian-based team at Vard managed project execution locally and trained the vessel’s crew to ensure full adoption of the new system.
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.”
Francisco Lima, VP of Retrofit and Service at Vard Electro, emphasized the agreed, saying, “This project demonstrates how we, as a system integrator, bring together technical insight and operational understanding to create tailored retrofit solutions. By designing a SeaQ ESS setup that matched Atlantic Shrike’s operational profile, we ensured real-world impact.”
Looking ahead, Atlantic Towing plans to expand on its partnership with Vard Electro through additional aftermarket services, ensuring ongoing system performance and support as regulatory and operational requirements evolve.
