Steber International was centre stage in a landmark moment in Australian maritime innovation with the first-ever refuelling of an electric hybrid vessel with 100% Renewable Diesel (HVO100).
This was a pivotal step toward decarbonising our marine sector.
Based on a Steber 43 design, the electric hybrid has been developed in partnership with Ampcontrol, Newcastle, and has already picked up a swag of industry innovation awards.
Set against the working backdrop of Newcastle Harbour, this event showcased clean energy in action — where electrification meets low-carbon liquid fuels for a smarter, more sustainable future on water. This was more than a demonstration — it was a turning point.
Steber International General Manager, Alan Steber said it was an extremely successful day.
“We completed four runs with various marine industry officials onboard.
“All witnessed zero smoke, perfect idling while using generator mode and the vessel achieved maximum rpm and power on demand”.
Business Development Executive for Future Fuels (representing Refuelling Solutions), Mr Cliff Kemmett said: “As the world pivots to electrification and or other technologies on the path to net zero, there exists an imperative to reduce emissions sooner and effectively to meet decarbonisation targets/ideals.
“By the simple transitioning from straight fossil fuel-based fuel to a low carbon liquid fuel alternative, the end user will reduce scope 1 emissions from the first load/tank full onwards.
“It was impressive to see your vessel power up on renewable diesel, to then “flick a switch” and run on battery power that highlighted a complete net zero result”, Mr Kemmett said.
Refuelling Solutions (RFS) currently supplies neat biodiesel and biodiesel blends across Australia and New Zealand as well as supplying renewable diesel (HVO100) after initiating the first supply of renewable diesel into Australia.
RFS has long established commercial relationships with the three biodiesel producers in Australia and is working closely with them to promote, advance increased product capacity and adoption/uptake throughout Australia.
On the road to decarbonisation and to achieving desired Net Zero emissions reduction targets low carbon liquid fuels options are readily available.
Refuelling Solutions (“RFS”) presently is working to expanding engagement on any decarbonisation initiative and supports strong collaborative engagement with other like-minded entities and technology providers that similarly commit to decarbonisation strategies and ideals. Last year, Australia consumed 32 billion litres of fossil fuel diesel. The innovation to advance “home-grown” technology and feedstock choices with
increased production capacities predisposes an opportunity for Australia to participate into an emerging industry that has the capacity to improve and benefit regional & national economies on the path to net zero.
There is no silver bullet. One technology doesn’t fit all. A collaborative approach can maximise the benefits.
We need to collectively focus on harnessing the potential of renewables across all sectors, to driving Australia towards decarbonisation and energy security. Collaborative renewable energy solutions, including biodiesel and renewable diesel, derived from waste and or agricultural feedstock, has contributed significantly to the growth of more sustainable industries and supports the integration of renewables into agricultural practices, ensuring a more sustainable/resilient future. Aligning with Australian manufacturers will help deliver clean energy solutions that will foster and benefit future generations to come.
PICTURED: Steve Mitchell (Ampcontrol), Fiona McKay (Port Authority NSW), Cliff Kemmett (Refuelling Solutions and top, Alan Steber (Steber International).
