CSSC Group Unveils Future Ship Designs at Posidonia Exhibition

During the Posidonia maritime exhibition, China State Shipbuilding Corporation Limited (CSSC Group) presented an insightful glimpse into the next 20-25 years of ship design. This event, attended by “Naftemporiki,” highlighted the innovative advancements CSSC is pursuing to enhance energy efficiency and sustainability in maritime shipping.

Focus on Energy-Efficient Designs

Chinese shipyards are prioritizing optimal ship designs to reduce fuel consumption and incorporate energy-saving devices. The development of next-generation ships is underway, including those powered by alternative fuels such as LNG, methanol, and ammonia. Shipbuilding for these new designs has already commenced, catering to forward-thinking shipowners.

R&D Initiatives by CSSC

CSSC has established two Research and Development companies: the Marine Design & Research Institute of China (MARIC) and the Shanghai Merchant Ship Design & Research Institute (SDARI). These institutes showcased their innovative ship designs at the event, emphasizing the role of design in the decarbonization process.

Integrated Low-Emission Ship Design

The integrated design approach for low-emission ships includes optimizing the engine, structure, loading system, propeller, and hull, along with applying low-friction paint. Energy-saving devices such as advanced sails, air lubrication systems, and carbon capture systems are also being introduced.

Path to Decarbonization

CSSC outlines five key “roads” to decarbonization:

1. Logistics and Digitization: Managing factors like speed reduction, ship utilization, ship size, and alternative routes can reduce energy consumption by up to 20%.
2. Hydrodynamics: Measures such as hull coating, hull optimization, and air lubrication systems can achieve a 5-15% reduction in fuel consumption.
3. Engineering: Improvements in engine technology, waste heat recovery, and battery hybridization can reduce energy consumption by 5%-20%.
4. Low to Zero Carbon Fuels and Energy: Utilizing fuels and energy sources with minimal carbon footprints.
5. Carbon Capture and Storage (CCS): Implementing CCS systems as an after-treatment measure.

Evaluation of Alternative Fuels

The presentation evaluated various alternative fuels and technologies for reducing ships’ environmental footprints, including LNG, methanol, ammonia, hydrogen, biofuels, batteries, and carbon capture and storage systems (CCUS).

1. LNG and Methanol: Limited carbon footprint reduction.
2. Ammonia: Low energy density.
3. Hydrogen: Requires extremely low temperatures.
4. Biofuels: Limited supply sources.
5. Batteries: Limited power output.
6. CCUS: High power consumption.

Regulatory and Compatibility Considerations

The regulatory framework is mature for LNG, methanol, biofuels, batteries, and CCUS, while other technologies await relevant regulations. In terms of compatibility, LNG, methanol, ammonia, hydrogen, and CCUS are suitable for medium and large-sized ships, while batteries are ideal for short-haul vessels.

This forward-looking approach by CSSC demonstrates a commitment to sustainable and efficient maritime shipping, setting the stage for future innovations in the industry.