EMEA News
Shell Launches First 100% LNG Powered Barge
Shell says it has launched the first ever barge powered only by liquefied natural gas (LNG) at a christening ceremony in The Netherlands.
The LNG powered barge, Greenstream, is the first of two new LNG powered barges to be chartered by Shell, and will start operating on the Rhine in the next few weeks.
Shell said the vessel has four small efficient engines rather than one large engine as in traditional barges, meaning power can be varied giving it the potential for fuel savings.
Greenstream was built and designed at Peters Shipyards in The Netherlands, who said the use of LNG reduces emissions of CO2 and nitrogen oxides (NOx) by more than 25 percent and 80 percent respectively, and no sulphur dioxide (SO2) and particulates are released.
"We are thrilled to see this first LNG powered barge in operation. Through innovation, a shared vision and a great deal of dedication, LNG powered barging has become a reality," commented Dr. Grahaeme Henderson, Shell Vice President Shipping & Maritime.
"Shell anticipates a bright future for LNG as a fuel in both coastal and inland shipping as it can help customers meet strict emissions standards such as those that are due to apply on the Rhine."
Shell said the launch was part of the longer term development of a new European LNG marine fuel industry with the potential to fuel inland barges, ferries, tugs, or cruise ships.
Over the next few years, Shell said it will develop two LNG corridors, primarily for the marine industry in the Gulf Coast and Great Lakes areas of North America.
Last month, Shell expanded its LNG business in Latin America and Spain with a $6.7 billion deal with Spanish oil company Repsol SA (Repsol).
