---

China National Offshore Oil Corporation (CNOOC) has taken delivery of Asia's first tugboat, Hai Yang Shi You 525, designed to operate solely on liquefied natural gas (LNG) as a marine fuel.

Hai Yang Shi You 525, the first of two tugs under contract to be built by Zhenjiang Shipyard for CNOOC, features a propulsion package based on twin Rolls-Royce Bergen C26:33L9PG engines and a pair of Rolls-Royce US 205 CP azimuth thrusters, which are designed to ensure the tugs have rapid manoeuvring and strong bollard pull capabilities.

Richard Wang, Rolls-Royce, Senior Vice President - Commercial Marine, said: "We are proud to be powering Asia's first gas-powered tug so shortly after delivering Borgøy, the world's first LNG-powered tug, to Norwegian owner Buksèr og Berging.

"This order marks a new era for tugboat propulsion technology in China. As its shipbuilding industry shifts focus from standard designs to more sophisticated tonnage, more owners and operators will see the benefit of using cleaner, more efficient fuelling solutions for their vessels."

John Knudsen, Rolls-Royce, President - Commercial Marine, remarked: "We congratulate CNOOC and the Zhenjiang shipyard on the completion of Asia's first gas-powered tug. China is one of the world's largest importers of natural gas and already has the LNG infrastructure in place. This is a pioneering project in Asia and its success has been dependent on the excellent cooperation between CNOOC, Shanghai Bestway Engineering, Zhenjiang Shipyard and Rolls-Royce."

The decision by CNOOC to operate on LNG follows the Chinese government's 2011 plan to strengthen its maritime base with the manufacture of high-end, ecologically-efficient ships and technology.

According to Rolls-Royce, the Bergen C26:33 gas engines reduce CO2 emissions by 25 percent and NOx emissions by up to 90 percent. Oxides of sulphur and particulate are also removed, minimising emissions along coasts and inland waterways.

Image: Hai Yang Shi You 525 vessel