Classification society DNV GL has awarded Korean shipbuilder Daehan Shipbuilding an approval in principle for the design of an LNG-fuelled 115,000 dwt Aframax tanker.

As the maritime industry continues to build on its efforts to reduce emissions, LNG as a ship fuel is attracting a great deal of attention across many ship sizes and types, DNV GL notes in a statement.

The new joint development project (JDP) undertaken by Daehan Shipbuilding and DNV GL focussed on producing a design that is tailored to these emerging regulatory and market trends, it said.

“We believe the completion of this joint development project will allow us to take a competitive position in a challenging market. Eco-friendly designs enabled DHCS to win newbuilding orders. The result of the JDP will be another enabler for us to strengthen our marketing strategy,” said Yong-Duk Park, CEO & President of DHSC.

Daehan now has an approved design and source technology that can satisfy the sulphur cap regulations which will take effect on 1 January 2020.

DNV GL reviewed and verified drawing packages related to gas-fuelled systems submitted by DHSC.

“We are pleased to deliver this AiP to DHSC after an intensive six-month project and successful completion,” said Vidar Dolonen, Regional Manager of Korea & Japan at DNV GL – Maritime, during the AiP presentation ceremony.

“We appreciate that DHSC has chosen us as a partner in the project, trusting our expertise in gas-fuelled ships. This AiP is another concrete indication that the shipping industry is progressing in reducing its environmental impact,” he said.