#Hanwha Power #South Korea #Seoul #ABS Approval #LNG Bunker

Hanwha Power Secures Approval for LNG Bunkering Vessel Design

On September 15, 2026, Hanwha Power announced a major milestone in the maritime industry: the company has received the Approval in Principle (AiP) from the American Bureau of Shipping (ABS) for its concept design of a 22,000 cubic meter (CBM) LNG bunkering vessel. This significant development was unveiled at GASTECH 2026, the world’s largest gas and energy exhibition, held in Bangkok, Thailand.

Overview of the Event

At GASTECH 2026, Hanwha Power showcased its prowess alongside its subsidiaries Hanwha Ocean and Hanwha Engines, presenting a myriad of integrated shipping and energy solutions. This collaboration aimed to highlight advanced and environmentally friendly systems ranging from ship retrofitting and propulsion technologies to comprehensive marine equipment and related services.

The event concluded with a certificate presentation attended by key figures, including Hoon-min Kim, the head of Hanwha Power's Marine Solutions division, and Jong-kyu Hwang, the Vice President for Technical Solutions, further reinforcing the collaborative spirit of the event.

Key Features of the LNG Bunkering Vessel

With this new approval, Hanwha Power expands its portfolio of mid-sized and large LNG bunkering vessels that range from 7,500 to 22,000 CBM. A standout feature of the design is its capability to handle LNG and ammonia simultaneously, representing a forward-thinking approach in shipping fuel technology as ammonia surfaces as a promising clean fuel for the future. This versatility allows for a dual-fuel strategy that adapts well to evolving market needs.

The design incorporates Mc-CⓇ cargo tank technology made from high-manganese steel, which affords enhanced compatibility with future alternative fuels with minimal modification required. This attribute not only boosts operational flexibility but also positions ship operators with a competitive edge in a rapidly changing industry landscape.

Enhancements in Environmental Performance

In response to the operational profiles typical to bunkering vessels in coastal waters, Hanwha Power has integrated a hybrid electric propulsion system. This system connects to an onshore power supply (OPS) and an energy storage system (ESS), significantly reducing harmful emissions during docked operations and in coastal deployments. Moreover, this innovative approach enhances overall operational efficiency and cost-effectiveness.

The company's integration of core technologies includes dual-fuel generator sets, ESS, electrical energy system integration, advanced automation systems, and sophisticated cargo handling mechanisms. By pooling these capabilities, Hanwha Power aims to maximize the competitiveness and synergies of its integrated engineering and procurement package (EP).

Future Implications and Commitment to Sustainability

Hoon-min Kim emphasizes the significance of this ABS AiP certification, viewing it as a critical testament to Hanwha Power’s technological reliability and economic viability within the global green shipping market. He stated, “Building on the unique competencies of the Hanwha Group in clean technologies, we will continue to provide global shipping manufacturers with optimized integrated solutions to transition towards sustainable maritime operations.”

The recognition from ABS marks a formidable progression for Hanwha Power as it sets its sights on delivering innovative and eco-friendly solutions to the maritime sector. Upcoming endeavors promise to lead the way in reducing the maritime industry's environmental footprint while boosting operational efficacy for ship owners worldwide.