Wedoany.com Report-Aug. 22, UK-based marine electric propulsion specialist RAD Propulsion and marine services provider Williams Shipping have successfully completed a project delivering zero-emission vessel operations in Southampton’s ports. The collaboration combined RAD Propulsion’s electric vessel technology and propulsion expertise with Williams Shipping’s marine operations, harbor liaison, and on-water support services.

The electric vessel was deployed to support a marine civil engineering project in Southampton, transporting materials from Williams’ quayside facilities to the construction site across local waterways. According to the companies, the operation delivered three key benefits: zero local emissions, significantly reducing air pollution in port areas; a low acoustic signature, enabling quieter operations and safer crew communication; and advanced autonomy, with RAD Propulsion’s integrated autonomous capabilities providing remote piloting, operational efficiency, lower costs, and reduced crew workload.

Dan Hook, CEO of RAD Propulsion, said: “This operation perfectly exemplifies our vision of revolutionising marine propulsion through intelligent, connected, and sustainable solutions. Working with Williams Shipping has allowed us to demonstrate the real-world application of our electric propulsion technology while supporting the local maritime community. Southampton is becoming a hub for marine innovation, and collaborations like this prove that local companies can lead the charge toward a more sustainable maritime future.”

Richard Brooks, Marine Operations Director at Williams Shipping, added: “We are hugely pleased to have provided a zero-emission solution to support this construction work. Having worked with RAD previously, we knew of their innovative product and ambitious vision. This endeavour demonstrates the value of supporting local maritime innovation, having solution providers like RAD in our region is vital not only for training and ongoing support, but also as we progress our own sustainability strategy.”

The project also underscores the growing interest in sustainable marine operations in Southampton and the potential for autonomous vessel technology to transform local maritime activities. By integrating electric propulsion and autonomous capabilities, the project highlights practical pathways for decarbonizing marine transport while improving operational efficiency.

Southampton has been actively advancing sustainable port infrastructure. In 2022, the port commissioned its first shore power facility for cruise ships at the Horizon Cruise Terminal and Mayflower Cruise Terminal, allowing vessels to plug in at berth and operate with zero emissions. Additionally, in 2024, the Port of Southampton partnered with the Maritime and Port Authority of Singapore (MPA) to support decarbonization and digitalization initiatives within the maritime sector.

Through this collaboration, RAD Propulsion and Williams Shipping have demonstrated that combining electric propulsion, autonomy, and local maritime expertise can deliver immediate environmental benefits while supporting construction and operational activities in port areas. The success of this project positions Southampton as a leading center for marine innovation and sets an example for other ports seeking to advance sustainable and autonomous vessel operations.