Oil & Gas

The UAE is advancing its adoption of clean technologies across various sectors, including maritime transport, by testing the Middle East's first all-electric locomotive. On May 21, 2024, SAFEEN Group, a subsidiary of Abu Dhabi Ports Group, announced that it had tested this pioneering locomotive, as reported by the Washington-based Specialized Energy Platform.

This new electric locomotive will soon begin operations at Khalifa Port, the central hub of Abu Dhabi Ports Group's activities. The locomotive was unveiled by SAFEEN at the 2024 International Towing and Rescue Conference, Exhibition and Awards, currently being held in Dubai until May 23.

The Damen RSD-E Tug 2513, the first electric locomotive in the Middle East, is fully electric and offers substantial emission reduction benefits aligned with the UAE's climate goals. This tug is entirely emission-free, from the tank to the propeller, and boasts a towing force of 70 tons, ensuring it can efficiently handle the largest ships. Additionally, it is cost-effective, with lower maintenance costs compared to diesel locomotives.

Captain Ammar Mubarak Al Shaiba, Group Chief Marine and Shipping Officer at Mwani Abu Dhabi Group, highlighted the significance of this development, noting it underscores the company's commitment to sustainability. He emphasized that adopting advanced technologies, such as the electric locomotive, is crucial for reducing greenhouse gas emissions in the marine sector.

The testing of this locomotive is part of the UAE's broader strategy to achieve carbon neutrality by 2050. The country recently made strides in this direction by exporting the world's first commercial shipment of certified low-carbon ammonia to Japan. This effort supports Abu Dhabi's emission reduction plans and helps meet customer demands, with the shipment produced using carbon capture and storage technology and certified by TUVSUD.