Çeksan Shipyard starts building a hybrid chemical tanker, NEOCLEAN TANKERS series, aiming for zero-emission operations by 2027.
Çeksan Shipyard is commencing the construction of the first chemical tanker in the NEOCLEAN TANKERS series, which stands out with its hybrid energy infrastructure, modular battery system, and zero-emission port operations. The vessel, to be built under the Turkish Lloyd class, is expected to start commercial voyages before the end of 2027.
Çeksan Shipyard is bringing to life a next-generation ship project that will contribute to the global transformation aimed at reducing carbon emissions in the maritime sector. The shipyard is starting the construction of the first vessel in the NEOCLEAN TANKERS series, developed within the framework of the 4th generation environmentally friendly and highly efficient chemical tanker concept.
The vessel, to be constructed with the hull number NB85, offers a significant engineering solution for sustainable maritime transportation of the future, featuring a hybrid energy infrastructure, modular battery system, and zero-emission port operations.
To be built under the Turkish Lloyd class, the NEOCLEAN series will be operated by NEO TANKER Maritime BV, a subsidiary of ÇEKSAN. Developed during a time when emission targets are becoming increasingly important in the international maritime sector, the NEOCLEAN TANKERS series combines environmental sustainability with high operational efficiency.
The next-generation vessel, whose research and development and design are carried out by Turkish engineers, will be constructed under the national classification organization Turkish Lloyd. The project, developed with a flexible infrastructure that meets today’s needs and adapts to future energy technologies, provides a long-term vision for sustainable maritime transportation.
The first vessel will be approximately 109.5 meters long, 17 meters wide, and will have a carrying capacity of 7,800 tons, serving the chemical transportation sector with a cargo capacity of about 8,800 cubic meters.
The vessel will reach a maximum speed of 12 knots and an economical cruising speed of 10.5 knots, with a crew capacity of 18. The energy system of the vessel is based on a lithium-ion battery infrastructure with a capacity of approximately 10 MWh, supported by six 555 kWe generators.
This is expected to allow the vessel to operate with a low fuel consumption of approximately 7 tons/hour.
One of the most distinguishing features of the NEOCLEAN TANKERS series compared to similar projects is its future-ready energy architecture. Initially constructed with a battery capacity of approximately 10 MWh, the vessel can reach a total battery capacity of 25 MWh thanks to the infrastructure designed in its layout. Using containerized battery modules, the capacity can be increased to 15, 20, or 25 MWh levels during the new construction process or throughout the vessel's operational life, depending on needs. One of the most notable environmental features of the vessel will be its zero-emission target during port operations.
The project, designed to enable entry to the port, cargo unloading, and departure from the port entirely on battery power, will significantly reduce environmental impact in port operations, where emissions and noise are most intense.
Additionally, the vessel will be able to charge its batteries by receiving electricity from the shore with an infrastructure that meets the requirements of cold ironing notation. Thus, it will be able to continue its operations without the need to run generators while in port.
Engineering solutions that support energy efficiency are also among the important components of the project. The silicone-based environmentally friendly hull coating system, optimized hull form, and specially designed propeller and rudder system will contribute to reducing fuel consumption while also lowering carbon emissions. The steel cutting of the first vessel with hull number NB85 is planned to begin in September 2026, with the goal of starting its commercial operations before the end of 2027.
Çeksan Shipyard, with the NEOCLEAN TANKERS series, once again showcases its engineering capabilities in the field of eco-friendly ship technologies while continuing to develop innovative solutions for sustainable maritime transportation.
Source: SeaNews Türkiye
