Zhejiang's first new energy ship route begins operating

The "Huzhou Changxing-Jiaxing Zhapu" new energy ship demonstration route begins operating. [Photo/Tide News]

The "Huzhou Changxing-Jiaxing Zhapu" new energy ship demonstration route has begun operating, with six new energy vessels departing from Changxing Port in Huzhou, Zhejiang province, for Zhapu Port in Jiaxing.

This route, linking two major ports in North Zhejiang, is the province's first demonstration route for new energy ships.

"The electric ships offer a smoother and quieter ride compared to fuel-powered vessels," said Shi Wencai, captain of the Ruigang 001, who has over a decade of experience operating shipping vessels. He said that energy costs for a single trip are about 3,000 yuan ($425.96) for fuel-powered ships, while electric vessels cost only 1,500 yuan.

Nearby, two 720-kilowatt charging stations built by State Grid Huzhou Power Supply Company can fully charge a ship in just three hours, supporting up to 10 vessels daily.

"This demonstration route provides a stable, low-carbon, and cost-effective logistics option for enterprises in Huzhou and the Yangtze River Delta region," said Jin Jianjun, deputy director of the Zhejiang provincial port shipping management center.

This route is part of the "Huzhou Inland River Green Shipping Corridor Project", selected as a pilot for green and low-carbon transportation by the Ministry of Transport. Stretching approximately 170 kilometers, it integrates key nodes along the route, promoting the close integration of inland shipping and energy systems.

Huzhou, a leader in inland water transport, handles nearly 40 percent of Zhejiang's inland cargo. The city is investing heavily in electric ship technology, attracting major industry players to its green smart ship technology industrial park, which is under construction.