CIMC SOE has commenced construction on Hull No. S1157, an upgraded 20,000 cbm LNG bunkering carrier for GSX Energy Limited at its Nantong shipyard. The ice-class, Wärtsilä-powered vessel features optimized dual-fuel configurations and a 1,300 kW shaft generator to maximize energy efficiency and boil-off gas utilization.
Nantong, China | May 15, 2026 – In a move that highlights China’s expanding dominance in the high-specification gas carrier market, Nantong CIMC Sinopacific Offshore & Engineering Co., Ltd. (CIMC SOE) has officially commenced construction on a newly optimized 20,000-cubic-meter LNG bunkering vessel.
The steel-cutting ceremony for the vessel, designated as Hull No. S1157, was held at CIMC SOE’s West Yard on May 15, 2026. Built for GSX Energy Limited, the project underscores the industry’s sustained demand for specialized, high-capacity tonnage to service the fast-growing dual-fuel global merchant fleet.
Technical Specifications & Efficiency Upgrades
The S1157 design is a newly optimized and upgraded iteration developed by CIMC SOE, building on a mature, combat-tested hull design. Engineers have adjusted core parameters and system configurations to place a heavier premium on operational economy and energy efficiency compared to previous sister vessels.
Key Ship Dimensions & Performance
- Overall Length: 159 meters
- Beam (Width): 25 meters
- Design Speed: 13 knots
- Capacity: 20,000 cbm
Advanced Engineering and Propulsion
To maximize fuel utilization and minimize greenhouse gas emissions, the newbuild incorporates a highly sophisticated machinery package:
- Dual-Fuel Main Engine: Equipped with a high-efficiency Wärtsilä dual-fuel propulsion system.
- Shaft Generator: Features a 1,300 kW shaft generator capable of meeting the vessel’s total electrical power requirements during normal sea-going transit.
- Cold Weather Ops: The vessel accounts for rigorous ice-class requirements.
- Dual-Fuel Boiler with GCU: In a notable departure from conventional designs, the vessel uses a dual-fuel boiler integrated with Gas Combustion Unit (GCU) functionality. This allows it to redirect boil-off gas (BOG) to produce steam for cabin heating while at berth, eliminating fuel waste.
- Shore Power Ready: The vessel’s design includes an option for a high-voltage shore power system, paving the way for zero-emissions port operations.
Strategic Significance
The steel-cutting ceremony was attended by a high-level delegation, including Niu Dong (Director), Zhu Yipeng (Operations Manager), and Ning Baodong (Site Manager) from the shipowner company, alongside Gautam Ramaswamy, Technical Director of Haihan Capital, and Luo Yonghong, Site Manager for the American Bureau of Shipping (ABS). Representing the yard was Chen Bin, Deputy General Manager of CIMC SOE’s Shipbuilding Business Division.
For CIMC SOE, the S1157 project further consolidates its technological foothold in the global liquefied gas carrier sector. By advancing its full-spectrum liquefied gas design capabilities, the yard continues to establish itself as a primary builder of choice for the critical infrastructure backing international shipping’s energy transition.
About GSX Energy Limited
GSX Energy Limited, a joint venture comprising Hong Kong’s SeaKapital Holdings, Hong Kong-listed Seacon Shipping and Greek owner Golden Union, is an emerging maritime energy infrastructure company focused on the sourcing, logistics, and down-stream distribution of transition fuels. Strategically positioning itself within the clean marine fuel supply chain, the company invests in high-specification, modern gas assets to provide reliable ship-to-ship LNG bunkering solutions for international blue-chip shipping lines.
About CIMC SOE
Nantong CIMC Sinopacific Offshore & Engineering Co., Ltd. (CIMC SOE) is a subsidiary of CIMC Enric and a world-leading shipyard specializing in small-to-medium-scale gas carriers (LNG, LPG, LEG, LCO2) and LNG bunkering vessels. Known for its strong in-house design, engineering capabilities, and high-specification cargo containment systems, the yard plays a critical role in providing the maritime infrastructure necessary for the global energy transition.
Source: CIMC SOE