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In a groundbreaking achievement for environmental technology, the world’s first ship-to-ship liquified carbon dioxide (LCO₂) transfer has been completed at Yangshan Deep-Water Port in Hangzhou Bay, Shanghai. This milestone, spearheaded by Shanghai Qiyao Environmental Technology (SMDERI-QET), marks a significant step forward in carbon capture and storage systems. For years, the shipping industry has faced challenges with carbon emissions, but this innovative project offers a promising solution. With support from the Shanghai Port Group Energy Co. and the Shanghai Port Group Logistics Co., the project sets a new benchmark in maritime carbon management.
Innovative Onboard Carbon Capture Technology
The success of the ship-to-ship LCO₂ transfer can be attributed to the Onboard Carbon Capture and Storage System (OCCS) developed by SMDERI-QET. This state-of-the-art system has demonstrated a remarkable carbon dioxide capture rate of over 80%, with a liquid carbon dioxide purity of 99.9%. Such high efficiency not only underscores the system’s capability but also highlights its potential to transform the shipping industry’s approach to carbon emissions.
Since its first full-process implementation in early 2024, the OCCS has enabled multiple end-to-end LCO₂ offloading projects. This progression has allowed ship owners participating in the initiative to achieve higher Carbon Intensity Indicator (CII) ratings, a first for OCCS technology. These enhancements in operational and environmental performance reflect the expertise and leadership of SMDERI-QET in the field of carbon capture.
Challenges in Port Infrastructure
Despite the technological advancements, the adoption of OCCS technology has faced significant hurdles due to inadequate port infrastructure. Many ports around the world are not equipped to handle large-scale carbon storage and recovery. This lack of infrastructure is a critical barrier to the widespread implementation of carbon capture technology in maritime operations.
Su Yi, General Manager of SMDERI-QET, points out that the installation of necessary facilities imposes high demands on port and terminal infrastructure. Factors like draft restrictions and limited space complicate the development of suitable systems for ship-to-shore offloading capabilities. As a result, ports struggle to support the logistical needs of carbon capture technology, slowing its adoption within the industry.
Advantages of Ship-to-Ship Transfer
The recent ship-to-ship LCO₂ transfer at Yangshan Deep-Water Port addresses many of the infrastructure challenges posed by traditional ship-to-shore connections. By enabling direct transfer of LCO₂ between ships, the project eliminates the need for extensive terminal facilities, thus significantly enhancing operational flexibility. This approach allows for the management of carbon loading and offloading even in terminals with inadequate infrastructure.
Su Yi notes that the offloaded LCO₂ is transported directly by ship to a storage and utilization facility, bypassing one of the largest obstacles to the large-scale application of carbon capture technology. This not only proves the viability of OCCS but also paves the way for its broader implementation across the shipping industry, offering a practical solution to one of the most pressing environmental challenges.
The Future of Maritime Carbon Management
The successful completion of the world’s first ship-to-ship LCO₂ transfer marks a pivotal moment in maritime carbon management. It demonstrates the potential for scalable, flexible solutions that can be adapted to current infrastructure limitations. As the shipping industry continues to grapple with emissions regulations and environmental impact, projects like this provide a blueprint for future innovations.
With the potential for significant reductions in carbon emissions, the ship-to-ship transfer method may become a standard practice, offering a sustainable path forward. This development raises an important question: How will the shipping industry adapt to increasingly stringent environmental regulations, and what role will innovative technologies play in shaping a more sustainable future?
