THE ADOPTION OF HYBRID VESSELS
Presented at Port of the Future Conference 2026
Session Overview
Moderator: Marco Ayala, President, InfraGard Houston Members Alliance
Panelists: Tony Zhao, Senior Project Engineer, Shell; Martin Curtin, CEO, Curtin Maritime; Joel Thigpen, General Manager, Marine New Build Sales, Wärtsilä
The adoption of hybrid vessel technology is gaining traction in the maritime industry due to its ability to reduce emissions, lower fuel costs, and enhance operational performance. Hybrid systems combine conventional diesel engines with battery power, reducing fuel consumption and operating emissions.
These systems are being used in vessel types including RoRo and RoPax ferries, tugs, research vessels, and other special-purpose ships. The trend includes advancements in battery technology, increased use of fuel cells, and retrofits of existing vessels.