ABS Exec: Tremendous Long Term Potential for LNG Bunkers

by Ship & Bunker News Team
Tuesday June 7, 2016

ABS Vice President of Global Gas Solutions Patrick Janssens Tuesday said that "the long-term potential for LNG as a marine fuel is tremendous."

"We see the near-term opportunities for larger vessels on fixed and known trade routes, but more opportunities will emerge as concepts mature and bunkering infrastructure expands. Environmental stewardship will continue to be a concern, and owners will be evaluating alternative fuel choices."

The declaration came alongside an announcement that ABS has partnered with Arista Shipping, Deltamarin Ltd (Deltamarin), GTT, and Wärtsilä Corporation (Wärtsilä) on "Project Forward," a joint development project (JDP) aimed at the creation of a liquefied natural gas (LNG) powered dry bulk carrier concept.

As Ship & Bunker reported last week, Project Forward could see their vessel hit the water as early as 2018, according the project lead at Athens-based Arista Shipping.

ABS says it will provide Approval in Principle (AiP) for the vessel concept, noting that the design is based on Deltamarin's B.Delta 82 design and features a GTT membrane LNG fuel tank.

The vessel design could also be used for other bulk carrier sizes, as well as provide a basis for LNG fueled tanker, notes ABS.

In May, Wärtsilä announced that it had also joined Project Forward, and would be providing its four-stroke, medium-speed engine to the vessel.

Ship & Bunker News Team
To contact the editor responsible for this story email us at editor@shipandbunker.com