Lloyd’s Register (LR) along with HD Hyundai Heavy Industries (HHI) and HD Korea Shipbuilding & Offshore Engineering (KSOE) are working on the design of a new generation of liquefied natural gas (LNG) tankers using hybrid electric power. This collaboration focuses on reducing fuel consumption and greenhouse gas emissions and has obtained preliminary approval for the design of a 185,000 cubic meter tanker.
Emphasis on Hybrid Electric Power Technology
This project seeks to utilize hybrid electric power technology, recognized as an effective solution for improving fuel efficiency and reducing greenhouse gas emissions. Andy McKeran, Chief Growth Officer at Lloyd’s Register, has highlighted the potential of this technology to support increased efficiency and reduced emissions, emphasizing that its large-scale implementation requires a strong approach to design and safety.
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The preliminary approval allows these three entities to work on the development and safety certification of the hybrid electric power system for the tanker. They will focus on strengthening the system architecture, redundancy philosophy, and battery integration. This project also aims to develop guidelines and technical requirements for this emerging technology, providing a framework to support its wider adoption in the LNG tanker market.
Technological Advancements and Their Benefits
Hongryeul Ryu, Executive Vice President and CTO at HD Hyundai Heavy Industries, stated that the company is actively adopting environmentally friendly technologies to comply with environmental regulations. He noted the various advantages and disadvantages of advanced electric power systems and predicts that these experiences will serve as a valuable foundation for the development and implementation of more efficient power systems in the future.
This project seeks to generate insights beyond LNG tankers and could influence future developments in electric power, fuel cell integration, and other advanced ship concepts. Kwang-Pil Chang, Senior Executive Vice President at HD KSOE, referred to the company’s approach to advancing electric power technologies and related solutions, emphasizing that these collaborations will strengthen technological leadership and shape the future of electric transportation.
This preliminary approval follows the introduction of a tri-fuel tanker concept by Lloyd’s Register and the China Maritime Design and Research Institute (MARIC), allowing owners to use LNG, methanol, or ammonia as fuel, depending on the evolution of infrastructure and regulations.
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