GTT and partners to design new 200,000-m3 LNG carrier

French engineering company GTT has announced the signing of a joint development project (JDP) with seven other maritime companies to design a new 200,000-cubic-metre liquefied natural gas (LNG) carrier.

The new vessel will incorporate three high-capacity cargo tanks, a shift from the four tanks used on conventional 174,000 m3 LNG carriers. It will also be designed to operate at a reduced speed. GTT stated this approach aims to reduce fuel consumption and CO2 emissions while "optimising operating expenditure."

As part of the JDP, GTT will develop the cryogenic cargo tanks and handling systems. Other partners contributing their expertise include charterer Sinochem Oil Shipping, shipowners COSCO Shipping LNG Investment and Shandong Marine Energy, shipbuilder COSCO Shipping Heavy Industry, and designer Marine Design and Research Institute of China.

The overall vessel design will be independently reviewed by the classification societies DNV China and China Classification Society. The target of the project is to obtain an approval in principle from both societies later this year.