Chinese shipyard orders ABB systems for LNG carriers

FEBRUARY 2, 2015 — ABB reports that it will deliver advanced electrical propulsion systems for four LNG carriers under construction by Hudong-Zhonghua Shipbuilding (Group) Co., Ltd. The LNG vessels are a joint venture between China National Offshore Oil Corporation (CNOOC), China LNG Shipping (Holdings) Limited (CLNG) and Teekay, and will operate under 20-year time-charter contracts with Methane Services Limited, a wholly-owned subsidiary of BG.

Under the contract, ABB will provide the vessels with medium voltage generators, medium voltage switchboards, propulsion drives, propulsion transformers, propulsion motors and propulsion control systems, together with the installation and commissioning of the equipment and training. The state-of-the-art electrical propulsion system offered by ABB delivers both environmental and cost benefits from lower fuel consumption. It also reduces emissions while it improves the maneuverability of the vessels.

“China has developed into one of the leading shipbuilders in the world through a high level of competence in the design and building of LNG vessels. As a leading supplier of electrical systems for the marine industry, ABB continues to deepen cooperation with customers like Hudong-Zhonghua Shipbuilding and utilize our rich industrial experience and technical expertise to support the further development of China’s shipbuilding industry,” says Heikki Soljama, Managing Director for ABB’s Marine and Ports business.