A fishing vessel using a "hybrid-electric propulsion" system that combines a diesel engine and an electric motor will begin operating in Korea for the first time.
The Ministry of Oceans and Fisheries said on the 1st that it had completed construction of a pilot fishing vessel with a hybrid-electric propulsion system and would hold a launching ceremony in Pohang on the 2nd.
The hybrid-electric propulsion system adds a battery-based electric motor to a conventional diesel engine. Depending on the situation, the engine and motor can be used together or separately. It can reduce fuel consumption and cut emissions of air pollutants such as fine dust.
The hybrid-electric fishing vessel built this time measures 20.95 meters in length with a gross tonnage of 9.77 tons. Up to eight crew members can board. It is designed to improve fuel efficiency by using the diesel engine to travel from port to fishing grounds and the electric motor during operations.
The Ministry of Oceans and Fisheries (MOF) has been promoting a research project to develop eco-friendly fishing vessels through the Korea Research Institute of Ship and Ocean Engineering since 2021, as an eco-friendly transition is needed in the fishing vessel sector to respond to tightening international environmental regulations and the move toward carbon neutrality.
The hybrid-electric fishing vessel built this time will undergo sea trials to verify its performance and safety in actual waters.
Kim In-gyeong, director general for fisheries resources policy at the Ministry of Oceans and Fisheries, said, "If eco-friendly propulsion technology is applied to the fishing vessel sector, it will significantly reduce the fuel cost burden on fishers," and added, "We will continue working to put eco-friendly ships into practical use."