ABS Awards AIP for Hanwha Power’s Hybrid LNG Bunker Vessel Design Capable of Ammonia Service

(HOUSTON) ABS has awarded approval in principle (AIP) to Hanwha Power for the concept design of a 22,000 CBM LNG bunker vessel capable of converting to ammonia service, with a hybrid electric propulsion system built for coastal and berth operations.

A key feature of the design is its multi-cargo capability. The tank, designed with Hanwha’s high-manganese steel cargo containment technology, allows the vessel to carry LNG today while positioning it for future conversation to ammonia service, giving shipowners a way to adapt to alternative fuel demand without a wholesale redesign.

The vessel also incorporates a hybrid power arrangement comprising three dual-fuel generator engines and an Energy Storage System (ESS). The generator engines serve as the main power source, while the ESS operates as an auxiliary system, supporting peak shaving, transient response and blackout prevention without affecting the stability of the main power grid.

“Bunkering vessels need to be able to meet demand as it evolves, and this design gives owners the flexibility to serve either LNG or ammonia without a wholesale rework of the vessel. Just as important is how the hybrid propulsion system is applied. ABS is proud to have worked with Hanwha Power to confirm the arrangement supports safe, reliable operation,” said Joshua Divin, ABS Senior Vice President, Global Business Development.

The vessel is intended primarily for coastal operation, and the hybrid arrangement is designed to reduce emissions while berthed or operating nearshore, supporting both environmental performance and operational efficiency.

“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.”

As shipowners weigh multiple fuel pathways and hybrid power arrangements, ABS continues to expand its services to help clients apply new fuels, batteries and hybrid technologies safely across new and existing tonnage. Learn more here.

Photo caption (L to R): Matthew Mueller, ABS Vice President, North Pacific Business Development, and HoonMin Kim, Hanwha Power Head of Marine Solutions Business