PowerX has unveiled the detailed design battery tanker “X”, aimed for completion by 2025, with domestic and international field testing planned to commence in 2026.
Moreover, PowerX has signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) and a Partnership agreement with Kyushu Electric Power Co., Ltd. and the City of Yokohama to pursue the novel concept of maritime power transmission and achieving carbon-neutral ports.
Modular battery Designs and Safety Features:
The first Battery Tanker “X” is scheduled for domestic and international field testing starting in 2026. This electric propulsion vessel boasts a length of 140 meters and will be equipped with 96 containerized marine batteries, providing a total capacity of 241MWh.
The onboard battery system is based on a proprietary module design, featuring safe and reliable lithium iron phosphate (LFP) battery cells that ensure a lifespan over 6,000 cycles. The system includes dedicated gas emission control and fire suppression mechanisms to ensure safety. Real-time monitoring of the battery system, charging controllers, and power conversion systems further enhances safety measures.
All batteries will be manufactured in-house in Okayama Prefecture and are scheduled to obtain international ship classification certifications and applicable standards such as DNV and Class NK, undergoing rigorous testing to meet the strictest conditions. Delivery of the batteries is scheduled to commence by mid-2024.
The Role of Battery Tankers:
Battery Tankers can be leveraged to store and transport surplus electricity generated from renewable sources. Decommissioned or idle thermal power plants located near ports can be retrofitted into charge/discharge points for the Battery Tankers, where the power is transmitted to users via grid connections on the land, enabling further effective use of renewable energy.
Moreover, areas with high potential for renewable energy generation are often distant from urban areas and other regions with high power demand. Strengthening transmission infrastructure becomes essential in such cases.
To remind, last year MOL and Asahi Tanker announced the world’s first pure battery tanker to operate completely on electricity – bunkered fuel on the MOL-operated car carrier Victorious Ace at the Daikoku Pier C-1 Wharf in Yokohama.
