INTERVIEW

Rasso Bartenschlager, General Manager, Al Masaood Power

CHAMPIONING SUSTAINABLE MARINE SOLUTIONS

Rasso Bartenschlager, General Manager of Al Masaood Power, talks about the division’s latest technologies and sustainable solutions showcased at Dubai International Boat Show

“We are confident that Al Masaood Power can add a lot of value when it comes to the supply chain for hydrogen. We seek to be a pioneer in hydrogen-powered marine technologies in the country.”

What is Al Masaood Power’s goals and objectives for 2022? Over the recent years, we, at Al Masaood Power Division have intensified our focus on sustainability not only as part of our response to the global trend and to future-proof our business but also to fulfil our social and environmental responsibilities.

This route has led us to adopt two kinds of approaches to energy sources, namely hydrogen and electrification. We are confident that Al Masaood Power can add a lot of value when it comes to the supply chain for hydrogen. We seek to be a pioneer in hydrogen-powered marine technologies in the country. On electrification, we are looking at being active in providing electric automotive charging options to promote sustainable and efficient mobility. These two approaches will remain at the center of our strategy moving forward.

Tell us about Al Masaood Power’s participation at the Dubai International Boat Show? It was a great success as the show provided us with an effective platform to showcase our latest technologies— especially our sustainable solutions— interact with industry peers and engage with the local and global ship and yacht manufacturers.

The event itself, which took place in a new location given the current global situation, had a large turnout. It was highly organized, allowing the participants and visitors to interact confidently, thanks to the safety and health protocols put in place throughout the event.

Why was this exhibition the right fit for Al Masaood Power? The exhibition was an ideal venue for us to display our portfolio of highquality MTU- and Volvo Penta-manufactured products that belong to the premium sector of the power nodes. We offer premium products in both smaller and bigger power nodes. The event was an opportunity to engage with our target market and showcase our big market share in the global mega yacht and superyacht segments.

How important is sustainability for Al Masaood Power and what steps have been taken to achieve sustainability goals? As mentioned previously, sustainability, particularly green mobility, is part and parcel of our future-proofing strategy. Our focus is on these two areas: supply chain for hydrogen and electric modular charging for any kind of mobility requirements.

Tell us about the features of MTU Hybrid Propulsion System Solution and how it can benefit yachts, workboats, ferries, and patrol boats? The hybrid propulsion system solution, which combines electric and diesel, brings numerous benefits to yachts, workboats, ferries, and patrol boats. These include reduced carbon footprint, lower fuel consumption and reduced cost.

It is also worth noting that the hybrid solution can be reduced in size and supported by electric power through a battery, which is ideal for workboats. Ferry boats can completely run-on electric motors to reduce their carbon emissions and be supported by a generator if power is not enough. A silent boat is a big advantage also.

We expect to see the introduction of new rules and legislation to allow the use of this type of system in the future.

What other solutions did you showcase at the Dubai International Boat Show? We exhibited a host of technologies, including diesel engines, the latest version of Volvo Penta’s ship automation system and hybrid models. During the event, we signed an agreement with SeaBubbles to pave the way for us to build and assess the performance of hydrogen-powered flying boats in the UAE.

Looking into the future, how do you see Al Masaood Power’s growth in the boat/ shipping sector? We see exponential growth opportunities in the sector, particularly in sustainability. Seeing the trend, it will not be a surprise to have a completely new shipping sector converted into this area in the near future. We will have a new sustainability-driven shipping community, opening up fresh growth opportunities for stakeholders. As we have started early, we are confident that we have an advantage that will enable us to strengthen our presence in this field.