On December 28, 2023, COSCO Shipping marked the naming and delivery of two innovative vessels, N997 and N998, in Yangzhou. Designated as COSCO Shipping Green Water 01 and COSCO SHIPPING Green Water 02, these vessels represent the maiden voyage of 700 TEU river-sea pure battery-powered containerships, a significant milestone in China's maritime landscape.
The construction journey commenced two months earlier, culminating in the independent design, development, and construction of these 10,000 deadweight tonnage (dwt) boxships. A remarkable aspect of these vessels is their capacity to transport up to 700 TEU solely relying on battery power throughout their entire voyage.
Utilizing cutting-edge swappable battery technology, the ships house batteries in containers that can be exchanged when depleted. Each vessel currently accommodates 24 batteries within a 20-foot container, with a total carrying capacity of up to 36 units, exceeding an impressive 50,000-kilowatt hours.
Upon entering operation, a single vessel is poised to make a substantial environmental impact, reducing carbon dioxide emissions by an estimated 2,918 tons annually. This achievement is equivalent to the yearly emissions of 2,035 cars or the positive environmental impact of planting 160,000 trees annually.
Emphasizing smart and sustainable practices, each boxship is equipped with an intelligent ship system that includes an intelligent integration platform, intelligent navigation, intelligent engine room, and intelligent monitoring of the ship's energy efficiency.
With dimensions boasting a length of 119.8 meters and a width of 23.6 meters, these vessels play a pivotal role in establishing an electrified shipping network along China's Yangtze River. This initiative aligns with efforts to facilitate the green transformation of the waterway and showcase the potential of green and zero-carbon shipping practices.
The first vessel has already secured recognition, receiving certification as the first battery-powered river-sea direct ship from the China Classification Society. It is anticipated to commence operations in the Yangtze River, navigating from Jiangsu to Shanghai, heralding a new era in sustainable shipping practices in China.
