China launched its first hydrogen fuel cell river container ship on December 18, 2024, a development aimed at reducing emissions from inland shipping operations.
The ship Dong Fang Qing Gang boasts the largest hydrogen fuel cell system deployed on a ship in China. It will operate on the route between Zhapu Port in Jiaxing and Hangzhou’s Xiasha Port.
The vessel will have two 240 kW hydrogen fuel cells and a hydrogen storage system to accommodate 550 kg hydrogen.
The fuel cells of the vessel having a 235-mile range are being developed by Sinosynergy, a Chinese company.
It will be able to accommodate 64 TEU, equivalent to 1450 tonnes and will measure 64.9 m lengthwise and displace 2000 tonnes.
Apart from fuel cells, the power system has storage for hydrogen and a supply system linked to a lithium battery.
This also marks the first time that this system along with the propulsion and control systems is being installed on a ship.
The hull was launched in Eastern China’s Zhejiang Province on Wednesday. The ship would be fitted and undergo testing with plans to begin a demonstration in 2025.
China is also undertaking other projects including battery-powered ships and an electrification and charging system, including programs exploring hydrogen-powered shipping.
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Video Credits: CCTV Video News Agency
References: Hydrogen Central