EMEA News
DEME Betting on Bunker Infrastructure For World's First LNG Dredgers
Belgian dredging group DEME told IHS Maritime 360 this week it has ordered what it believes are the world's first liquefied natural gas (LNG)-powered dredgers.
But the dredgers, which are destined for the European market, will have a dual-power design in case of issues obtaining LNG bunkers due infrastructure problems.
Jan Gabriel, head of construction for DEME, said his company is counting on adequate infrastructure to be ready when the dredgers are put into operation before the end of 2016, but that they will have the ability to run on diesel if setbacks occur.
Gabriel added that DEME may order more LNG-enabled vessels for other international markets in preparation for the 0.50 percent global sulfur cap that will come into force in either 2020 or 2025.
The two dredgers are a 104 metre all-rounder and a 77 m vessel designed for shallow water dredging, and will be constructed by Dutch shipbuilder Royal IHC for an undisclosed price.
Gabriel said the decision to order the vessels was based on extensive study showing that LNG propulsion is the best solution for compliance with impending bunker sulfur limits, and that DEME's fleet size has enabled the company to play a pioneering role in the use of LNG-powered craft.
"We have the luxury of being able to specialise," he said.
"We are very excited about going this way and entering a new path and a new technology."
Last year Qatari marine company Nakilat said it believes regulations have pushed the use of LNG to the forefront of marine fuel.
