segment of the sector: hydrogen, wind, nuclear, traditional generation and emerging technologies.”
Although the approach to transporting renewable power project cargoes does not differ fundamentally from that of moving conventional energy freight, the variety of equipment is increasing and each technology brings its own regulatory and operational challenges, he said.
“ Many of the core components, such as transformers, cables and control systems, are identical across both conventional and renewable applications,” he explained.“ What differs is the regulatory framework around each technology, the sequencing of deliveries and in some cases the level of scrutiny from authorities and investors.”
Charnock cited a recent delivery of 48 lithium BESS units from China to a remote site in Western Australia, the region’ s first approved lithium battery import, as an example of the more stringent safety, compliance and risk management environment around new power technologies.
Operationally, the move involved breakbulk ocean transport, specialized handling equipment and a challenging 90-km final leg across a dirt road. It also required“ extensive compliance work, including a two-year consultation process to secure port approval under new IMO( International Maritime Organization) regulations, strict dangerous goods procedures, high-pressure cleaning, and detailed biosecurity and customs controls,” he said.
Jack Zhou, general manager at MPV operator AAL Shipping, said transporting IMO-classified cargo, such as BESS units,“ requires elevated security documentation and safety protocol.”
For starters, all AAL vessels hold a Document of Compliance for the Carriage of Dangerous Goods, which includes tailored onboard contingency plans covering spillage, fire and other emergency scenarios involving BESS units.
“ To further enhance the safety of the vessel and monitor the internal temperature of the BESS units, AAL has invested in flammable-gas detectors, temperature and humidity monitoring systems, portable thermal cameras and high-capacity submersible pumps,” Zhou told the Journal of Commerce.“ Crews undergo specific drills prior to each shipment and vessels are equipped with toxic-gas protective gear.”
“ The power sector’ s longstanding high expectations are not only continuing but intensifying.”
Strict loading controls overseen by the Officer of the Watch ensure all dangerous goods signals are displayed and that no“ hot work,” such as welding the D-rings used for lashing, is carried out after BESS units are loaded on board. Weather routing experts help the in-house performance optimization team plan voyage routes to minimize vessel motion. During transit, crew perform regular inspections and activate immediate countermeasures if any irregularities are found.
“ As BESS technology scales and unit sizes grow, AAL expects regulations to further evolve,” Zhou added.
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Freight demand from renewable energy projects continues to power up, while oil and gas development falters. Trans Global Projects www. joc. com March 2026 | Journal of Commerce 9