Hanwha Power has obtained approval in principle (AiP) from the American Bureau of Shipping (ABS) for the concept design of a 22 000 m³ LNG bunkering vessel at Gastech 2026, held in Bangkok, Thailand.

At Gastech 2026, Hanwha Power operated a joint exhibition booth with marine and energy affiliates, including Hanwha Ocean and Hanwha Engine. The Group showcased its comprehensive marine solutions, ranging from the transition to eco-friendly vessels and propulsion systems to marine equipment and related technologies.

The certificate presentation ceremony was held on 15 September, with Hanwha Power Marine Solution Business Division Head, Hoon-min Kim, Vice President, Jong-kyu Hwang – who oversees Technical Solutions – and key ABS representatives in attendance.

With the latest AiP, Hanwha Power has completed its lineup of medium and large scale LNG bunkering vessels, ranging from 7500 m³ to 22 000 m³.

A key feature of the concept design is its LNG-ammonia multi-cargo capability, which enables the vessel to transport not only LNG but also ammonia, an emerging next-generation bridge fuel. The design incorporates high-manganese steel cargo containment technology, Mc-C, allowing the vessel to adapt to the future transition to alternative fuels with minimal design modifications. This provides shipowners with greater long-term technological flexibility and competitiveness.

Considering the operating characteristics of bunkering vessels, which primarily operate in coastal waters, Hanwha Power has also applied a hybrid electric propulsion system that integrates an onshore power supply system with an energy storage system (ESS). The system is designed to minimise harmful emissions while the vessel is berthed or operating in coastal areas, while also improving operational efficiency and economic performance.

In addition, Hanwha Power has incorporated the Group’s core technologies, including dual-fuel generator sets, ESS, electrical power system integration, integrated automation system, and cargo handling system. By integrating these technologies, the company aims to maximise the competitiveness and business synergies of its integrated engineering and procurement package, covering both engineering and procurement capabilities.

Hoon-min Kim responded: “This ABS AiP marks another important milestone demonstrating Hanwha Power’s technological reliability and commercial viability in the global eco-friendly vessel market. Building on the Hanwha Group’s differentiated clean technology capabilities, we will continue to provide global shipowners with optimised integrated solutions for the transition to more sustainable marine transportation.”

Read the article online at: https://www.lngindustry.com/small-scale-lng/21092026/hanwha-power-obtains-abs-aip-for-lng-bunkering-vessel-concept-design/