South Korea Invests in First LH2 Carrier Development
Key Ideas
  • The South Korean Government is allocating US$39.5 million to develop the country's first LH2 carrier.
  • Local shipbuilders Hanwha Ocean, HD Hyundai Heavy Industries, and Samsung Heavy Industries are partnering on the project.
  • Pusan National University's Hydrogen Ship Technology Centre will lead the initiative, involving various local universities and research organizations.
  • Future plans include the construction of larger LH2 carriers with capacities of 40,000 and 160,000 cubic metres, to be operational by 2032-2040.
The South Korean Government, specifically the Ministry of Trade, Industry and Energy, has announced an investment of US$39.5 million for the development of South Korea's first liquefied hydrogen (LH2) carrier. This initiative is a joint effort of local shipbuilders Hanwha Ocean, HD Hyundai Heavy Industries, and Samsung Heavy Industries. The project will be led by the Hydrogen Ship Technology Centre at Pusan National University, with the participation of various local universities and research organizations. The initial LH2 carrier will have a capacity of 2,000 cubic metres, serving as a demonstration ship. Additionally, plans are in place for the construction of two larger LH2 carriers with capacities of 40,000 and 160,000 cubic metres, set to be operational between 2032 and 2040. These advanced carriers will feature cargo tanks capable of storing LH2 at extremely low temperatures of minus 253 degrees Celsius, marking a significant milestone in South Korea's hydrogen technology development.
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