KOMAC's LNG-fueled hydrogen-ready LCO2 carrier gets RINA's nod of approval

RINA, an Italy-based engineering consulting, inspection, and certification company, has awarded Korea Maritime Consultants (KOMAC) the approval in principle (AiP) for a newly developed 40,000 cbm liquefied natural gas (LNG)-fueled, hydrogen (H2)-ready LCO2 carrier.

It is understood that carbon capture, utilization, and storage (CCUS) technologies offer potential for decarbonization and are considered a key enabler of a more cost-effective and achievable net-zero future.

Among the available CO2 transportation options, shipping is seen as a viable solution to link emission sources with storage sites, RINA said, claiming that compared to pipelines, it provides shorter lead times, greater flexibility and scalability, streamlined permitting processes, and, in many cases, improved economic efficiency.

RINA noted that KOMAC’s vessel design captures the growing momentum in the LCO2 shipping segment, as major international projects begin to set the pace, adding: “The future-ready design of the LCO₂ carrier, which features hydrogen as fuel – produced on board and on demand – offers a practical and efficient solution for meeting the IMO 2050 decarbonization targets.”

Simone Manca, North Asia Marine Vice President at RINA, commented: “This AiP reinforces the close and productive relationship between RINA