Lloyd’s Register, Shell and GTT to explore hybrid-electric 200,000m³ LNG carrier concept

Lloyd’s Register, Shell, and GTT have joined forces to explore a novel concept for a 200,000m³ LNG carrier that could revolutionize the industry. The trio has launched a Joint Development Project (JDP) aimed at developing a vessel that combines hybrid-electric propulsion with GTT NEXT1® cargo containment technology. The partnership hopes to enhance cargo capacity, efficiency, and flexibility for future LNG carrier designs as industry demands evolve.

Through the JDP, the partners will focus on developing and verifying the hybrid-electric propulsion system, delving into system architecture, redundancy, and battery integration. They will also evaluate the commercial aspects using a total cost of ownership (TCO) model. Simultaneously, the integration of GTT NEXT1® cargo containment technology will be assessed within the overall vessel concept.

Moreover, the project will establish technical requirements and guidance for hybrid-electric propulsion in LNG carrier applications, helping to advance understanding of this technology. Constantinos Chaelis, Global Gas Segment Director at Lloyd’s Register, emphasized the importance of the project, stating that the industry faces mounting pressure to transport more energy with lower emissions and greater operational flexibility.

By pooling expertise from across the LNG value chain, the partners aim to lay technical foundations for future assessments of LNG carrier concepts.