China has delivered its largest domestically designed and built liquefied natural gas (LNG) carrier, marking progress in its capability to construct large vessels for clean energy transport.

The ship, Celsius Georgetown, departed for Singapore after delivery from China Merchants Heavy Industry (Jiangsu), according to CCTV.

It measures 298.8 metres in length and 48 metres in width, with a capacity of 180,000 cubic metres, and uses a dual-fuel, low-speed propulsion system.

Border inspection procedures were completed in advance to support a smooth and timely departure under favourable tidal conditions.

China Merchants Heavy Industry (Jiangsu) has received orders for six LNG carriers of this type. Five are still under construction, with the next vessel expected to be delivered in about three months.

LNG carriers transport natural gas in liquid form at temperatures around minus 163 deg C.