Rolls-Royce engines used in Asia’s first LNG-powered tug

Asia’s first tugboat to be fuelled entirely by LNG, Hai Yang Shi You 525, has been delivered to China National Offshore Oil Corp. (CNOOC).

Hai Yang Shi You 525 is the first of two tugboats built by the Zhenjiang shipyard for CNOOC. The tug features a propulsion package, based on twin Rolls-Royce Bergen C26:33L9PG engines and a pair of Rolls-Royce US 205 CP azimuth thrusters to ensure the tugs have rapid manoeuvring and strong bollard pull capabilities.

The Bergen C26:33 gas engines reduce CO₂ emissions by 25% and NOx emissions by up to 90%. Oxides of sulfur and particulate are also removed, minimising emissions along coasts and inland waterways.

The decision to operate on LNG follows a plan set out by the Chinese government in 2011 to strengthen its maritime base with the manufacture of ecologically-efficient ships and technology.

John Knudsen, Rolls-Royce, President – Commercial Marine, said: “We congratulate CNOOC and the Zhenjiang shipyard on the completion of Asia’s first gas-powered tug. China is one of the world’s largest importers of natural gas and already has the LNG infrastructure in place. This is a pioneering project in Asia and its success has been dependent on the excellent co-operation between CNOOC, Shanghai Bestway Engineering, Zhenjiang shipyard and Rolls-Royce.”

Edited from press release by Callum O'Reilly

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