The launching ceremony for the building of China's first full-scenario hydrogen port kicks off in Qingdao. [Photo provided to chinadaily.com.cn] 

The launching ceremony for the building of China's first full-scenario hydrogen port kicked off in Qingdao on June 12, with a view to expediting the cultivation of new quality productive forces and promoting energy transition at ports.

Pilot trials in hydrogen port development

Over the past five years since its establishment, Shandong Port Group (SPG) has achieved remarkable milestones. SPG has pioneered the world's first port information modeling, independently developed an intelligent control system for the automated container terminal, and constructed the world's first indigenously developed automated container terminal and parallel-layout automated container terminal. These advancements have propelled SPG to make substantial strides in overcoming core technological bottlenecks. 

Additionally, it has advanced the "hydrogen benefits the public" technological demonstration project and built the world's first smart eco-terminal employing hydrogen energy and 5G technology, along with China's first hydrogen refueling station at ports. By doing so, it has embarked on a unique and industry-leading journey for building a hydrogen port.

Furthermore, SPG has taken the lead in unveiling a green and low-carbon port development plan during the 14th Five-year Plan period (2021-25) within the port and shipping sector and has given full support to Qingdao Port in building a "China hydrogen port". 

Making progress in hydrogen port development

Establishing China's premier low-carbon and clean energy supply system at ports. SPG has erected the nation's inaugural hydrogen refueling station at ports, with a daily hydrogen refueling capacity surpassing 1,000 kilograms. By now, over 80,000 kilograms of hydrogen have been refueled, resulting in a reduction of over 1,000 metric tons of carbon emissions.

SPG has taken a pioneering role in advancing the use of hydrogen trucks for large-scale operations at ports. The company has incorporated 50 hydrogen-powered vehicles specifically designed for port use, which collectively have successfully covered an impressive operational distance of 800,000 kilometers. This accomplishment has effectively displaced 260,000 liters of traditional fuel.

Being a global pioneer in hydrogen-electricity coupled DC microgrid RMG. SPG has spearheaded the introduction of a split-type power system for RMG featuring series and parallel coupling, achieving the integration of low-power fuel cells and high-load RMG, as well as the complementary utilization of hydrogen energy and electricity.

Taking the lead in developing the world's first 7,000-horsepower ultra-high power hydrogen-electricity hybrid tug boat. This groundbreaking vessel has resulted in the annual reduction of over 1,400 tons of carbon emissions.

Accelerating "China hydrogen port" development

In the realm of establishing a demonstration port, SPG will accelerate the full-scenario layout and explore more cutting-edge technologies.

Regarding integration into industrial chains, SPG will focus on the port-centered integrated supply chain service system to coordinate upstream and downstream industries, fostering the creation of modern industrial chains for hydrogen power utilization.

The strategic plan of SPG involves capitalizing on the port's core competencies to create an ecosystem, establishing a collaborative platform, and fostering collective development and resource sharing. This approach aims to strengthen the network of the hydrogen energy industry and promote a culture of shared resources and mutual benefit.

During the event, Qingdao Port signed agreements with 10 eco-partners in hydrogen port construction, aiming to pool resources across the industrial chain and build a platform for the high-quality development of the hydrogen industry.