Classification society Korean Register (KR), in collaboration with the Marshall Islands Registry flag state, has granted an Approval in Principle (AiP) for an Onboard CO2 Capture System (OCCS) developed by Hanwha Ocean of South Korea.
With the IMO and EU strengthening regulations concerning GHG emissions, including the recent implementation of CII regulations, shipping companies are said to be faced with the imperative to closely monitor and reduce their vessels’ carbon emissions to meet these stringent standards. Considering these evolving environmental regulations, onboard CO2 capture and storage technology is emerging as a possible promising solution to address global emissions requirements.
The OCCS technology developed by Hanwha Ocean absorbs CO2 generated on board using absorbents and converts it into mineral form. The technology is considered to consume very little energy compared to other CO2 capture technologies, and the amount of additional CO2 generated during its operation is relatively small. Furthermore, its compact design ensures efficiency in implementation.
KR verified the stability and suitability of the OCCS by reviewing classification rules and domestic and international regulations in collaboration with the Marshall Islands Registry.
Yeon Kyujin, head of KR plan approval centre, said: “Currently, the carbon capture and storage technology is expected to contribute a sizeable portion of the total global CO2 reduction, so market demand for this technology is growing. It is meaningful for us to pre-emptively respond to the demand and play a major role in commercialising OCCS technology with this successful AiP.”
Kang Sang-Don, VP and Head of Hanwha Ocean’s Basic Design Department, added, “The OCCS developed this time will be applied to 174K LNGC in the future. We will work to strengthen our competitiveness by developing eco-friendly technology that meets the ever-strengthening environmental regulations and the requirements of ship owners.”
