China is accelerating its shift to use greener bunker fuels in inland water transport, with more than 1,000 vessels powered by new energy or clean energy now operating nationwide, according to the Ministry of Transport.

As of the end of 2024, the country had over 600 liquefied natural gas (LNG) vessels, primarily used for inland cargo transport, and 485 battery-powered electric vessels, mostly serving as passenger ferries, Vice Transport Minister Fu Xuyin told a press conference on 27 June.

A smaller number of inland vessels powered by methanol or hydrogen fuel cells are also in use, Fu added.

China’s electric vessel industry has developed rapidly in recent years, leading globally in both scale and technological advancement, he said.

Alongside upgrading vessels, China is accelerating efforts to develop green, low-carbon ports, and this includes expanding and renovating inland port terminals with a focus on sustainability, Fu noted.

China is also developing near-zero-carbon inland terminals, encouraging the use of wind and solar power at ports, promoting the use of new energy and clean energy in port machinery and on-site transport vehicles, and prioritizing rail and new-energy trucks for bulk cargo handling, he added.

Photo credit: Xu Xiang/China State Council Information Office
Published: 8 July 2025

Four maritime associations have jointly launched the Global Alliance for Maritime Electrification (GAME), a coalition of nonprofit organizations dedicated to accelerating the electrification of maritime transportation, on 24 June.

With an initial focus on inland, nearshore, and commercial vessels, GAME brings together global expertise to advance zero-emission solutions through coordinated research, policy advocacy, and industry collaboration.

The partners announced the new alliance at the Electric & Hybrid Marine World Expo in Amsterdam.

The four founding members, IEMA – International Electric Marine Association, ZESTAs – Zero Emission Ship Technology Association, MBF – Maritime Battery Forum, and EOPSA – European Onshore Power Supply Association, collectively represent more than 250 member organizations around the world.

“We see tremendous potential to fast-track zero-emission solutions for the world’s workboats, ferries, and passenger vessels,” said Adria Jover, President of IEMA. “By aligning our strategies, GAME members will amplify each other’s voices, reduce redundancy, and better serve this industry transition.”

“There is no room for risk. Electrification is key: zero GHGs, zero pollution, zero harm to planet,” stated Madadh MacLaine, Secretary-General of ZESTAs.

“Batteries are key enablers of zero-emission transport, but they must work in concert with other clean technologies,” said Syb ten Cate Hoedemaker, Managing Director of the Maritime Battery Forum. “This collaboration is how we ensure an effective and timely transition.”

“Electrification of ports and vessels is not a future vision – it is an actionable reality,” emphasized Roland Teixeira, President of EOPSA. “Onshore power supply is one of the most immediate tools in the decarbonization toolbox.”

Photo credit: Blue Note Agency
Published: 8 July 2025

The Switch on Tuesday (17 June) said Bergen Tankers and Equinor have signed a long-term charter agreement for two oil/chemical tanker newbuilds with an electric propulsion system, which aim to set a new standard for low emissions at the Norwegian Coast.

The Norway-based companies selected Berg Propulsion as the system integrator for these DNV ice-classed tankers. The newbuild 6,500 dwt stainless steel tankers will be built by Zhoushan Dashenzhou Shipbuilding in China. 

The vessels will include two electric drive controllable-pitch propellers (CPP) in a propulsion system with a battery package and shore power capability to ensure high efficiency, low power consumption and reduced emissions. 

Berg Propulsion chose The Switch to supply each vessel with two large DC-Hubs responsible for the main power distribution on board and two PMM1000 propulsion machines. Berg will deliver the shaft and bearings. 

“Berg Propulsion is proud to continue our good cooperation with The Switch and deliver our patented configuration of the Direct Drive Electric, which combines a robust and simplified configuration with the highest possible efficiency. Together with the DC-Hub, motors and PMS, it further strengthens the position of Berg Propulsion as a supplier for high-end automation and integration packages,” said Mattias Dombrowe, Business Manager, Electrical System Integration at Berg Propulsion. 

The Switch received the order from Berg at the end of May this year. Deliveries of The Switch products will start in Q2/2026 to the shipyard in China. Commissioning is planned for the second half of 2026.

“Being selected to supply The Switch DC-Hub and PM propulsion machine package is a significant milestone for us, highlighting our position as a trusted and innovative technology partner,” said Miika Reinikka, President and CEO of The Switch. 

“This opportunity underscores the market’s recognition of our advanced products that deliver efficiency, reliability and future-ready performance. It also reinforces our commitment to driving sustainable progress through game-changing green power electronics and propulsion technologies.”

The flexible power systems on the newbuilds can be adapted to use marine fuels such as ammonia, methanol, biofuels or LNG. 

Bergen Tankers’ main trading areas are along the Norwegian coast, in the North Sea/Continent/UK, and in the German/Danish Baltic Sea.

Photo credit: The Switch
Published: 18 June, 2025