Hanwha Power obtains ABS approval in principle for 22,000-cubic-meter LNG bunkering vessel concept design

Hanwha Power announced on September 16 that it has obtained approval in principle (AiP) from the American Bureau of Shipping (ABS) for the concept design of a 22,000-cubic-meter LNG bunkering vessel at Gastech 2026, the world’s largest gas and energy exhibition, held in Bangkok, Thailand.

At Gastech 2026, Hanwha Power operated a joint exhibition booth with major 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 September 15 local time, 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 7,500-cubic-meter to 22,000-cubic-meter.

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 (OPS) system with an energy storage system (ESS). The system is designed to minimize 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 maximize the competitiveness and business synergies of its integrated engineering and procurement (EP) package, covering both engineering and procurement capabilities.

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

About Hanwha Power 

Hanwha Power is a specialized provider of energy equipment and eco-friendly solutions. Since establishing its Marine Solution Business Division in 2023, the company has been actively pursuing projects involving vessel retrofits, alternative-fuel propulsion, and energy-efficiency improvements.

Hanwha Power provides differentiated eco-friendly marine solutions to global shipping companies, including vessel retrofits, onboard regasification and re-liquefaction systems, increased cargo containment capacity, and alternative-fuel conversions. Through these solutions, the company is leading the transition toward more sustainable marine transportation.

About ABS

Founded in 1862 and headquartered in the United States, the American Bureau of Shipping (ABS) is a leading international classification society. ABS evaluates and certifies the technical compliance and safety of ships and offshore structures throughout their design, construction, and operation.