SHI gets AiP from Lloyd’s Register for next-gen LNG carrier design
Samsung Heavy Industries (SHI) has secured Approval in Principle (AiP) from Lloyd’s Register (LR) for a new design of a 174,000m³ LNG carrier featuring Wind Challenger technology, a wind-assisted propulsion system developed by Mitsui OSK Lines (MOL).
The formal presentation of the AiP took place during a ceremony at Gastech 2025.
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The introduction of the Wind Challenger technology aims to enhance the environmental performance of LNG carriers, which already emit lower carbon levels compared to traditional oil-fuelled vessels.
By utilising renewable wind energy, the system has the potential decrease greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions further.
SHI led the design process for the vessel, while LR conducted an independent review of the design in line with its established rules and regulations.
MOL deputy chief technical officer Yoshihiko Sugimoto said: “With the valued collaboration of Lloyd’s Register and the Republic of Liberia, we are delighted to receive this AiP for SHI’s next-generation LNG carrier design featuring MOL’s Wind Challenger technology.
“This milestone highlights our unwavering commitment to leading the decarbonisation of the maritime industry and accelerating progress toward our medium- to long-term target of achieving net zero GHG emissions by 2050.”
The Liberian International Ship and Corporate Registry (LISCR) has also been involved in the project, providing support to ensure adherence to regulatory standards.
The collaboration among these entities has demonstrated the feasibility, safety, and performance of implementing a large-scale wind-assisted propulsion system on an LNG carrier, which could facilitate broader adoption of such technologies in the maritime sector, according to LR.
LR global gas segment director Panos Mitrou said: “Wind-assisted propulsion technologies are emerging as an important part of the industry’s journey to decarbonisation.
“By working closely with our project partners, LR is proud to support the safe and effective integration of the Wind Challenger onto a large LNG carrier design.”
In August this year, LR announced the launch of LR Ports Advisory, a new initiative aimed at helping ports tackle their complex challenges.
