Taree's Steber International, Ampcontrol and University of Newcastle collaborate for hybrid boat project

The parties have conducted a series of successful bench and on-water trials of a hybrid diesel/electric prototype, with Steber launching the test rig on the Manning River on Wednesday, December 9.

Ampcontrol chief executive Rod Henderson and Member for Myall Lakes Stephen Bromhead were among those who climbed aboard the boat for a test run.

Steber International general manager Alan Steber said the research and development project could be a game changer for the entire marine landscape.

"Potential applications include marine park boats, police boats, recreational and leisure boats, harbour foreshore inspection boats, tourist boats, yacht club tenders, security vessels to name a few," Mr Steber said.

"Working with the Australian Maritime Safety Authority (AMSA), we will establish the additional protocols required for commercial vessel registration and use.

"The project has the potential to boost jobs in regional NSW and we encourage all levels of government to support the next phases of ongoing research and development, marketing and commercialisation."

The next step involves demonstrating the versatility and strengths of the vessel to prospective users.

Ampcontrol and the University of Newcastle added their expertise to make the project a true collaboration.

"Ampcontrol specialises in electrical engineering and control systems, having over 50 years experience in delivering integrated electrical and electronic solutions, responding to challenges with agility and ingenuity,' Mr Steber said.

"University of Newcastle have come to the party with research input right down to the granular level and testing facilities, helping to ensure the project meets the latest Australian safety standards."

The hybrid diesel/electric propulsion system allows a boat to be power efficient, quiet and significantly more emission friendly without suffering any loss of cruising range.

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The application of batteries and an electric motor facilitates a reduction in the size of the diesel engines required while maintaining the same, or higher, power ratings for the vessel.

Noise, vibration and emissions are reduced when the boat is in electric motor mode. This mode would be ideal for activities requiring stealth such as police operations and maritime inspections or other applications requiring minimum noise disturbance and constant idle time.

The mode would also be preferred in enclosed harbours or marine reserves where minimal water and airborne diesel pollutants would be ideal.

Significant operational cost savings are also available due to the minimal cost associated with shore-based battery charging relative to diesel-only operations.

"With folding propeller technology, an operational vessel may have twin diesel engines, as is currently in use, with a third additional electric motor producing efficient manoeuvring with both diesel engines shut down," Mr Steber said.

"When high speed is required, the twin diesels can be 'kicked in' and the electric motor shut down, allowing the folding propeller to eliminate drag.

"If a 240v generator is installed on board for other applications such as air-conditioning for the crew and computers, this power can offer further support to the battery bank via 'charging on the run' while the main thirsty twin engines are shut down."

Prime Minister Scott Morrison recently announced Australia will be joining other nations in reducing carbon emissions to an unprecedented level by 2050/60.

"He also has been quoted as saying Australia will accelerate research and deployment of low-emission technologies," Mr Steber said.

"A Steber 12 tonne maritime/police boat could operate in any harbour at three-four knots under electric power for several hours, or if the generator is utilised, for an indefinite period. Shore power fast charging between operating intervals will maintain efficiency.

"It is expected that fuel savings will pay for the electrical upgrade within two years, depending on the vessel's operating hours. Further savings will be achieved with the initial build program by reducing the fuel tank size as well as other variables.

"We just need the next round of government tenders to be open to this technology, thereby employing more of our country kids."

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