ABB has been contracted for electrical propulsion systems to four LNG carriers under construction by Hudong-Zhonghua Shipbuilding in China.

The vessels, a joint venture between China National Offshore Oil Corporation (CNOOC), China LNG Shipping (CLNG) and Teekay, will be equipped with ABB medium voltage generators, medium voltage switchboards, propulsion drives, propulsion transformers, propulsion motors and propulsion control systems.

Once delivered, the vessels will operate under 20-year time charter contracts with Methane Services Limited, a wholly-owned subsidiary of BG Group.

ABB will provide installation and commissioning of the equipment as well as training.

"China has developed into one of the leading shipbuilders in the world through a high level of competence in the design and building of LNG vessels," said Heikki Soljama, md for ABB Marine and Ports. "As a leading supplier of electrical systems for the marine industry, ABB continues to deepen cooperation with customers like Hudong-Zhonghua Shipbuilder and utilise our rich industrial experience and technical expertise to support the further development of China's shipbuilding industry."