Asia/Pacific News
South Korea Set to Introduce Electric Ships
South Korea this year plans to introduce its first electric ships in an effort to help reduce the energy costs and greenhouse gas emissions of small fishing farms, the Korea Herald reports.
The government backed 1.2 billion won ($1.13 million) project could see the introduction of up to 40 electric vessels.
Energy costs for the new vessels were said to be about 10 percent of an equivalent traditional fuel-powered vessel.
The ships, developed jointly by the country's Ministry of Oceans and Fisheries and the University of Ulsan, would be significantly slower than fuel-powered ships with a speed of about 5 knots per hour, as well as limited in operating range and power.
The ministry said the limitations would make them only suitable for use in near seas or inland waters.
