Hanwha Ocean announced that it held an LNGC User Forum at Gastech 2024, currently taking place in Houston, and unveiled its next-generation zero-emission LNG carrier, the “Ocean 1,” equipped with cutting-edge eco-friendly and digital technologies.

This marks the first unveiling of the specific technologies behind "The First Fossil-Free Ship on the Water," Hanwha’s blueprint for developing a carbon-free vessel powered by alternative fuels, which was announced at the World Economic Forum Annual Meeting in Davos, Switzerland, this past January.

The LNGC User Forum was organized to highlight Hanwha Ocean's competitive edge in LNG carrier technology to major LNG shipping companies and global classification societies, thereby enhancing its ability to secure shipbuilding orders. Over 100 officials from the global shipbuilding and maritime industries were in attendance.

The gas carrier showcased at the forum is designed with an ammonia gas turbine-based electric propulsion system, enabling zero-emission operation without fossil fuels. It can also operate on a dual-fuel system using LNG, which is widely used in ships, with the flexibility to incorporate fuel cells and batteries in the future.

At the forum, Hanwha Ocean also introduced a plan to utilize the High Manganese Steel Cargo Tank Independent Type-B (MCTIB)—which has already been applied to its VLCCs and container ships—as a cargo tank for the gas carrier. Using MCTIB as a cargo tank is expected to significantly reduce boil-off gas, thereby improving transportation efficiency.

Hanwha Ocean also shared its vision for the commercialization of autonomous ships. Fully autonomous vessels, which operate without a crew, require unmanned operation and automated cargo loading and unloading technologies. To support these advancements, the control systems, navigation systems, smart ship solutions, and digital twin technologies were showcased at the forum.

Collaboration plans to create synergies with Hanwha Group affiliates, Hanwha Engine and Hanwha Power Systems, were also introduced. Hanwha Engine presented a main engine monitoring solution with features that detect abnormalities and provide information on maintenance cycles for major parts. When integrated with Hanwha Ocean's smart ship solution, Hanwha SmartShip Solution & Service (HS4), it will offer real-time onshore monitoring.

Hanwha Power Systems introduced an eco-friendly solution to replace fossil fuel engines on existing ships with ammonia gas turbines. This solution garnered significant interest from shipowners, who are under pressure to operate existing ships economically while complying with greenhouse gas emission regulations, as building new ships can be financially burdensome.

“The zero-emission gas carrier unveiled at this forum is an innovative green solution that will lead the industry,” said a Hanwha Ocean spokesperson. “We will continue to strengthen collaboration with Hanwha affiliates and solidify our position as a global maritime solutions provider leading the decarbonization of the seas.”

About Hanwha Ocean
Hanwha Ocean is a leading global company with extensive expertise and experience in the shipbuilding and offshore industry. Boasting the world’s most competitive LNG carriers built with eco-friendly and highly efficient technology, the company has continuously pioneered new businesses since 1973, producing a vast range of vessels, including commercial ships, drillships, and specialty ships. Hanwha Ocean will be at the forefront of pioneering advanced marine solutions for decarbonization and further expand Hanwha’s green energy ecosystem to create positive, sustainable change throughout the world. More information about Hanwha Ocean is available at https://www.hanwhaocean.com/

About Hanwha Engine
Hanwha Engine aims to be a driving force in the maritime industry through its distinctive technological prowess and comprehensive lifecycle management capabilities for large, low-speed marine engines. Established in 1983, the company has pioneered innovations like commercialization of the world's first dual-fuel engine and development of DelNOx NOx reduction system. Now expanding into eco-friendly technologies, Hanwha Engine focuses on low-emission methanol and ammonia propulsion systems. Hanwha Engine also offers comprehensive aftermarket services to ensure engine efficiency and performance, supporting the maritime industry's transition to sustainable solutions. More information about Hanwha Engine is available at https://www.hanwha-engine.com/

About Hanwha Power Systems
Established in 1977, Hanwha Power Systems launched as an energy equipment business in 1997 by building on its reliable technology and deep experience in gas turbine engines. Since then, the company has become a global powerhouse and has delivered more than 6,500 air and gas compressor units worldwide. In 2017, Hanwha Power Systems relaunched as an independent company and achieved an operating surplus for four consecutive years through 2021, establishing a foundation for stable growth. In October 2022, the company was acquired as a subsidiary of Hanwha Impact. More information about Hanwha Power Systems is available at https://www.hanwhapowersystems.com/