ABS, HD Korea Shipbuilding & Offshore Engineering  and HD Hyundai Heavy Industries, signed a memorandum of understanding to collaborate on the technical feasibility for medium-voltage direct current  power systems on ships.

The agreement opens the door to collaborate on design assessment, new technology qualification as well as the development of rule guidance to provide clear directives on technical requirements, safety standards and regulatory compliance.

“We are proud to partner once again with HD KSOE and HHI. Our companies are equally focused on the safety of the maritime industry while supporting a smooth transition to clean energy. Alternative energy options, particularly electrification, are needed to help the shipping industry achieve net zero by 2050,” said Patrick Ryan, ABS Senior Vice President and Chief Technology Officer.

Byoung-Hun Kwon, head of HD KSOE Electrification Center, said: “For the electrification/unmanning of large ships and ship systems, marine MVDC technology is essential, not optional, and we have successfully developed a low-voltage direct current power system (LVDC) in many projects, including the Ulsan Taehwa. Based on our experience in delivery, we will lead the large ship electric propulsion market by expanding our technology to the MVDC power system.”

This is the latest stage in a long running program of collaboration between the organizations, with ABS supporting HHI on ammonia carriers, autonomous navigation and green hydrogen production.