The Coryton refinery has taken delivery of three new tugs. They will replace vessels used to pull large tankers into dock – with two of the new vessels capable of performing towing tasks which previously required three or four tugs. Fewer tugs means reduced emissions – plus, the new fleet has improved fire-fighting capability and greater manoeuvrability, both of which will help us to have greater control over the risk management of shipping operations. One of the three tugs, the Corringham, is also being fitted with 12 solar panels to assess the use of solar power and renewable energy in ships. ‘”We will monitor the power usage from the solar panels to assess the reduction in fuel consumption and greenhouse gas emissions,” explained Katharine Palmer, the environmental advisor for BP Shipping. All three tugs – the Corringham, Stanford and Castle Point – have been named in honour of neighbourhoods near the refinery. Rick Hale, Coryton refinery manager said: “The support of the local community is something we value highly and that is why the three tugs have been named in recognition of the goodwill we have received for over 50 years.”
