CNOOC receives LNG tugboat from Zhenjiang shipyard

China National Offshore Oil Corporation (CNOOC) has received the first of two tugboats, Hai Yang Shi You 525, ordered from the Zhenjiang shipyard in China.

Powered by twin Rolls-Royce Bergen C26:33L9PG engines, the new vessel has been designed to operate on liquefied natural gas (LNG).

Hai Yang Shi You 525 also features a pair of Rolls-Royce US 205 CP azimuth thrusters, which will allow the vessel to have rapid manoeuvring and strong bollard pull capabilities.

Rolls-Royce Commercial Marine senior vice-president Richard Wang said: "We are proud to be powering Asia’s first gas-powered tug so shortly after delivering Borgøy, the world’s first LNG-powered tug, to Norwegian owner Buksèr og Berging.

"This order marks a new era for tugboat propulsion technology in China. As its shipbuilding industry shifts focus from standard designs to more sophisticated tonnage, more owners and operators will see the benefit of using cleaner, more efficient fuelling solutions for their vessels."

Rolls-Royce Bergen gas engines are equipped on the vessel that will help minimise CO2 emissions by 25% and NOx emissions by up to 90%.

Moreover, its capacity to remove sulphur and particulates will help reduce emissions along coasts and inland waterways.

Rolls-Royce Commercial Marine president John Knudsen said: "This is a pioneering project in Asia and its success has been dependent on the excellent cooperation between CNOOC, Shanghai Bestway Engineering, Zhenjiang Shipyard and Rolls-Royce."

CNOOC’s decision to operate the vessel on LNG is in accordance with the Chinese Government’s 2011 plan to build high-end, ecologically efficient ships and technology to strengthen its maritime base.

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Image: CNOOC’s new Bergen gas engine powered Rolls-Royce LNG tugboat. Photo: courtesy of Rolls-Royce plc.