Joint Project for LPG as Marine Fuel Marks Progress

LPGreen is said to be "making headway" toward a concept design for an LPG-fuelled carrier. Image Credit: DNV GL

DNV GL says LPGreen, its joint development project with Consolidated Marine Management (CMM), Hyundai Heavy Industries (HHI), and Wärtsilä Oil & Gas (Wärtsilä), has been "making headway" toward a concept design for an LPG carrier capable of operating on LPG fuel.

As Ship & Bunker has previously reported, the project partners set out to consider current and future trading patterns in its efforts to develop a more energy efficient, environmentally friendly, and safer LPG carrier vessel that still ensures overall competitiveness - the results of which were presented in April.

"The LPGreen project could not have happened at a better time. With 2020 fast approaching, the shipping industry will have to make the right decisions in regard to the proper option and avoid spending a lot of money unnecessarily to meet the new regulations coming over the horizon," said Kostas Vlachos, COO of CMM.

"This concept of LPG carriers offering the efficient option of burning LPG is new. Nothing like it has been developed in the past."

While the concept has been developed, CMM says it will hold off on ordering a new ship until all parameters are clear and all questions answered.

"We have always wanted to lead the way but have to wait and see what happens in the coming months, but I expect market pressure to speed up acceptance of the LPGreen concept design," said Vlachos.

Vlachos also explains that further efforts are required to ensure charterers are aware of the LPGreen design's innovative features regarding bunker capacity as well as loading and discharging procedures.

"Charterers in particular have to be brought up to speed about the development since increased capacity and reduced time spent in terminals is of great interest to them, along with the significant reduction in fuel consumption during all stages of operation. Besides, it is simply necessary to have the charterers on board," he explained.

"The concept is a revolution compared to the classical designs. It secures a lot of energy savings and safety advantages."