South Korean shipbuilder Daewoo Shipbuilding and Marine Engineering has received an approval in principle from ABS for its hybrid power system for large LNG carriers.
The hybrid power system configuration includes a battery energy storage system (ESS) and shaft generator within an existing power source that would allow the LNG carriers to access hybrid power when needed most such as spinning reserve or peak shaving, according to a statement by ABS.
DSME successfully applied the hybrid system, already in use in the industry to support smaller vessels such as ferries, at its test facility for ship research and development to large LNG vessels.
“With the AIP from ABS, it is now possible to reduce dependence on the generator engine and improve fuel efficiency by including a solution that can improve the performance of the DSME shaft generator,” ABS said.
The approval process included review of the ship’s internal arrangement, function, risk analysis, and operation scenarios reflecting actual electrical loads, it said.
“Hybrid electric power systems offer the opportunity to improve safety, reliability, operational efficiency, and reduce the fuel consumption, environmental footprint, and equipment maintenance when compared to traditional electrical power systems,” Gareth Burton, ABS VP technology said in the statement.
“Being able to apply hybrid power systems to large vessels like LNG carriers is another step forward in the drive to meet IMO sustainability goals,” Burton said.
DSME recently won an order for six LNG carriers, exceeding its annual order target of $8.9 billion.
The shipbuilder won orders for 44 ships this year, including six LNG-powered containerships and 36 LNG tankers.
DSME recently also terminated a contract for two LNG carriers it won in July this year.
