Americas News
DNV Commissioned by IMO to Study LNG Bunkering in North America
Det Norske Veritas (DNV) says it will conduct a study for the International Maritime Organisation (IMO) on the potential for liquefied natural gas (LNG) bunkering in North America.
While natural gas is widely available across the continent, LNG is less commonly used, since "the demand and supply side are waiting for each other," DNV said.
Adoption of the fuel is hampered by logistical problems, said DNV, and companies are hesitant to invest in making LNG bunkering happen because of questions around feasibility.
"In developing LNG as an alternative fuel for short sea shipping, we foresee significant market opportunities for manufacturers, ship designers, and yards with focus on LNG technology," said Tony Teo, DNV's U.S. technology and business director.
"DNV's involvement in research and innovation in LNG supply, storage, engines and emission issues has demonstrated that ship safety, market mechanisms, and operational regularity can be maintained when operating ships on LNG.
"But there are many variables and risks that have to be assessed and managed first, and we hope this study will contribute to this."
The study will involve trends in international shipping services in the North American Emissions Control Area (ECA), ship types and routes, existing and planned LNG infrastructure, regulations, environmental benefits, technological readiness, and key enablers.
DNV will deliver the report to the IMO in October.
Earlier this month, a group of maritime organisations announced a similar study focused on LNG bunkering in Canada, and DNV has also helped with such assessments in other locations including Australia and South Korea.
