Asia/Pacific News
NYK Line to Partner on Study to Bring LNG Bunkering to Port of Yokohama
NYK Line is partnering with Tokyo Gas Co., Ltd. (Tokyo Gas) and Japan's transport and economy ministries on a study that will examine the viability of a liquefied natural gas (LNG) bunkering station at the Port of Yokohama, World Maritime News reports.
It is reported that developing such a station would involve upgrading of port facilities and the purchase of bunkering vessels, a project that is expected to cost around $93.1 million.
It is also noted that Tokyo Gas has already set up an LNG Terminal in Yokohama, which could be used for the project.
The study group is reported to be set to hold its first meeting on June 9, a meeting that will see project members discuss the viability of a LNG bunkering station, with Port of Yokohama to be used as a model case.
The meetings agenda is also said to include a discussion on the project's technological and infrastructure requirements, as well as associated costs.
The group is reported to be intending to have a completed infrastructure plan for the project by the end of 2016.
As Ship & Bunker reported in September, Japan's first LNG fueled vessel, the tugboat Sakigake, has been charted to NYK Group subsidiary Wing Maritime Service Corporation for operation mainly at the ports of Yokohama and Kawasaki.
