China delivers new-generation 175,000cbm LNG carrier ‘Sea Energy’ with upgraded independent design

Xinhua News reports that the world’s newly upgraded second-generation 175,000 cubic metre LNG carrier “Sea Energy” has been officially named and delivered on 24 July. The vessel was built by CSSC Dalian Shipbuilding Industry Corporation in collaboration with CSSC Trading for China Merchants Energy Shipping, marking another milestone in China’s high-end shipbuilding sector.

Independently developed and designed by Dalian Shipbuilding Industry Corporation, the new LNG carrier adopts the advanced Mark Ⅲ Flex cargo containment system and integrates a comprehensive suite of core marine equipment. Its configuration includes dual-fuel main engines and generators, conventional fuel oil boilers, professional cargo handling systems and dedicated re-liquefaction devices. Built on mature construction experience accumulated from the first-generation LNG vessels, the ship has achieved comprehensive technical iteration and process optimisation.

The vessel’s hull lines, propeller structure and energy-saving accessories have been fully upgraded, delivering balanced performance in operational efficiency, manoeuvrability and port compatibility. The upgraded design enables the carrier to berth and operate at the majority of large-scale LNG terminals worldwide, supporting flexible global energy transportation deployment.

During the construction and sea trial phase, the vessel completed rigorous operational verification under complex and diverse maritime test conditions. Simulating full commercial operation status throughout the trial process, the carrier successfully finished comprehensive LNG unloading validation at shore terminals within 10.5 hours, demonstrating stable operational reliability and efficient cargo handling capacity.

The official delivery of the lead vessel of the second-generation LNG carrier series verifies the mature large-scale manufacturing capability of China’s LNG shipbuilding industry. Domestic shipbuilding enterprises have achieved steady progress from initial technological breakthroughs to continuous batch delivery, with integrated production techniques, construction standards and operational support systems fully optimised and stabilised.

Chinese shipbuilding enterprises will continue to advance iterative upgrades for high-end LNG vessel designs, expand batch construction capacity and improve independent industrial supporting capabilities. The continuous launch of new-generation high-efficiency and low-carbon LNG carriers will further underpin global clean energy shipping and cross-border natural gas supply chain stability.