EMEA News
First German-Flagged LNG-powered Vessel Planned
DNV GL says it will class a new ferry that will be the first German-flagged newbuilding designed to run mainly on liquefied natural gas (LNG).
The 80-meter-long ferry, built for AG EMS by Germany's Fassmer, will be capable of using standard bunkers if necessary but will generally operate on LNG.
The ship will operate between Cuxhaven and Helgoland ports.
Using the fuel will allow the vessel to reduce its carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions by up to 30 percent, while drastically cutting sulfur oxide (SOx), nitrogen oxides (NOx), and particulate matter emissions.
"At DNV GL we have promoted the use of LNG as a ship fuel for many years and it is very gratifying to see that there is a growing realisation of the potential of this technology to help the shipping industry demonstrate its commitment to acting as responsible steward of the environment," said Henning Pewe, a DNV GL LNG expert.
"We have been working for some time on the development of these technologies, especially in the area of bunkering, to ensure that as more owners look to take advantage of these innovations they have the support they need to be confident in the safety of their investment."
The vessel, which has the capacity to carry 1,000 passengers and up to 10 ten-foot reefer containers, also features a hull design optimised for a cruising speed of 20 knots.
The ship is scheduled for delivery in April of 2015.
Wärtsilä Corporation (Wärtsilä) said recently that LNG, which is becoming a popular solution for vessels operating in emissions control areas (ECAs), is emerging as a "prime fuel for ferries."
