The Passamaquoddy First Nation and AKA Energy Systems celebrate a significant achievement as the keys for hybrid fishing boat, named “Hybrid 1,” were presented to its new owners, the Passamaquoddy First Nation council last week.
Developed by P.E.I.-based, sustainable engineering company, AKA Energy Systems (formerly known as Aspin Kemp & Associates), this vessel showcases innovative technology, marking a milestone in their sustainable marine operations. Hybrid 1 is a testament to AKA’s expertise in hybrid propulsion systems, having previously designed larger hybrid vessels utilized worldwide. However, adapting such technology for smaller fishing vessels presented its own set of challenges. Jason Kemp, CEO of AKA, shared the journey behind the development, stating, “On the bigger vessels, a million dollar or multi-million-dollar system can be justified as a cost, whereas on a small fishing vessel, it’s not. It took a couple of decades of learning, and applying that to this concept to get those costs down and shrink the physical size of it down to integrate it into the propulsion system,”
Lobster fisher Dana Lavers, who tested the vessel for the past few months, expressed her satisfaction with its performance. Dana said that the hybrid technology proved to be as powerful and efficient as a traditional diesel boat, even when running on electric. She also said that the vessel’s electric mode allowed seamless docking, leading to considerable fuel cost savings and reduced engine upkeep.
The Passamaquoddy First Nation intends to utilize Hybrid 1 for both scientific research and fishing purposes. Roland Sappier expressed their excitement about being at the forefront of innovative marine solutions. He stated, “One of the other possible uses would be to use it for some search and rescue operations because, with the usage of the battery, it enables the vessel to run almost silently. So, if you are on the waters and somebody’s hollering or whatever you would be able to hear people. But with the diesel, you would not be able to do that,”.
While acknowledging the current cost challenges for fishermen, AKA’s CEO emphasized the company’s commitment to making the technology more affordable. AKA also aims to further revolutionize marine operations by exploring zero-emission options, including alternative fuels, diverse propulsion engines, and sustainable energy sources.
The early success of Hybrid 1 has gathered much attention and anticipation from the maritime community. Matthew Lambert, boat captain from the Passamaquoddy First Nation, praised the vessel for its smooth and quiet operation, expressing optimism about its future performance.
About AKA Group
With 28 years of experience delivering complete solutions from small scale to large power plants over 50 MW, AKA ES is a world leader in power and propulsion technology, covering the marine, offshore and land-based sectors.
AKA’s 100 000 ft2 manufacturing facility in Prince Edward Island, Canada includes a state-of-the-art mechanical fabrication shop, an electrical assembly area and a medium voltage test bay. AKA offers a full spectrum of integrated products and services including; systems integration, new product development, engineering, manufacturing, testing, installation, commissioning, life cycle support, field services, integrated documentation and training. Our solutions incorporate several patented and innovative technologies including the AKA Hybrid Propulsion Solution. AKA is dedicated to bringing every industry it is involved with to the next level in terms of reliability, fuel efficiency and carbon footprint. Some of AKA achievements include the world’s first hybrid powered harbor assist tug boat, world’s first hybrid offshore drilling system, as well as being a pioneer and world leader in highly reliable and efficient closed bus solutions for vessels utilizing dynamic positioning systems.