China’s First Hydrogen Fuel Cell River Container Ship Launched

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 a 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 programmes exploring hydrogen-powered shipping.

Watch this video to know more:

Video Credits: CCTV Video News Agency 

References: Hydrogen Central