Motive Energy will design and deliver large-scale charging and energy infrastructure for Curtin Maritime’s electric tugboat fleet at the Port of Los Angeles. The project represents one of the first purpose-built charging deployments in the United States for commercial marine operations.
Highlights
- Four 1-megawatt charging systems will support electric tugboat operations with high-voltage DC output and marine-grade cable handling
- 10-MWh battery energy storage system reduces peak grid demand and enhances operational resilience
- Barge-based platform connects to new onshore utility service with integrated transformers, switchgear, and power-conversion equipment
- Planned solar resources pending Port of Los Angeles approval to reduce lifetime emissions
Charging System Specifications
The deployment includes four 1-megawatt high-capacity charging systems engineered for commercial marine duty cycles. Key features include:
- High-voltage DC output for fast-turnaround operations
- Marine cable-handling systems suitable for waterfront environments
- Simultaneous charging ports per vessel enabling consistent daily fleet operations
- Multiport charging configuration meeting demanding tugboat schedules
Energy Storage and Grid Integration
A 10-MWh battery energy storage system serves as the central component, optimizing energy availability while reducing peak grid demand. The complete system will be delivered on a barge-based platform with new onshore utility connections.
Motive Energy is responsible for engineering and integrating transformers, switchgear, and power-conversion equipment to meet marine-operations requirements.
Industry Perspectives
“Ports across the country are seeking viable pathways to reduce carbon emissions, and this project demonstrates the role that advanced energy infrastructure will play in enabling that transition,” said Bob Istwan, Chief Executive Officer, Motive Energy.
Jeffrey Rome, AIA, Executive Vice President at Motive Energy, emphasized operational reliability. “It’s more than installing chargers; it’s building systems that deliver reliable power, day after day, without disrupting operations.”
Martin Curtin, CEO of Curtin Maritime, noted the infrastructure’s role in fleet strategy. “Motive Energy’s engineering approach provides the performance, reliability, and adaptability required for continuous marine operations at the Port of Los Angeles.”
Project Timeline
Additional milestones are expected in the coming months, pending final engineering review and stakeholder approvals. The project complements regional efforts to advance clean maritime technologies and establish scalable models for zero-emission port operations.
Learn more at motiveenergy.com/divisions/sustainable-solutions/ and curtinmaritime.com.
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