China Launches First Hydrogen-Electric Tugboat at Qingdao Port
Key Ideas
  • China's first hydrogen-electric tugboat, Qing Dian Tuo 1, is operational at Qingdao Port, using a hybrid system for zero carbon emissions.
  • This environmentally friendly vessel boasts a towing force of 82 tons and the country's largest lithium battery capacity, reducing over 1,500 tons of CO2 annually.
  • Designed by Liangang Innovation Team, the tugboat integrates advanced technologies like Beidou navigation and sets a precedent for green infrastructure in port operations.
  • Qingdao Port's hydrogen energy strategy includes testing hydrogen-powered rail cranes and cogeneration fuel cells to advance the use of hydrogen energy in all port scenarios.
China has officially launched its first hydrogen-electric tugboat, named Hydrogen-Electric Tug No.1, at Qingdao Port in Shandong Province. This innovative vessel operates using a hybrid propulsion system that combines hydrogen fuel cells with lithium batteries, enabling it to run with zero carbon emissions and a towing force of 82 tons. It is designed to reduce over 1,500 tons of CO2 annually compared to conventional diesel-powered tugboats. The tugboat, developed by the Liangang Innovation Team, features advanced technologies such as the Beidou navigation system and an intelligent charging setup. Port officials believe this deployment is a significant step towards reducing emissions and promoting green infrastructure at the port. The initiative aligns with Qingdao Port's hydrogen energy strategy, which includes testing hydrogen-powered equipment like rail cranes and cogeneration fuel cells. The port aims to expand hydrogen use and modernize equipment to further enhance sustainability in port operations.
ADVANCEH2

Our vision is to be the world's leading online platform for advancing the use of hydrogen as a critical piece needed to deliver net-zero initiatives and the promise of a clean H2 energy future.

© 2025 AdvanceH2, LLC. All rights reserved.