Another Owner Backs LNG Bunkers with Latest Newbuild Order

Van Oord has ordered the construction of a new LNG-powered crane vessel.

Netherlands-based Van Oord, in a move that puts them among the latest shipowners to support the use of liquefied natural gas (LNG) bunkers, has announced its order of a new LNG-powered crane vessel.

"Energy efficiency is one of the top items on our sustainability agenda. To reduce our carbon footprint, we are researching the use of alternative fuels, such as LNG and biofuel," said Jaap de Jong, Staff Director of the Ship Management Department at Van Oord.

"With this investment, we will be gaining experience of LNG-powered vessels and the related benefits."

The new vessel, known as Werkendam, is set to become Van Oord's first LNG-powered vessel, and is expected to be deployed to Netherlands-based projects carried out by Van Oord subsidiary Paans Van Oord BV (Paans Van Oord).

"The vessel will be able to run on LNG, with gas oil as backup. With a 38 m3 tank on the aft deck, the Werkendam will be able to store enough LNG on board to sail and operate for 14 days without bunkering LNG," explains Van Oord.

In addition to using LNG as marine fuel, the company says the newbuild vessel will have "smart features" that allow the vessel to use less fuel and emit less CO2 without sacrificing operational production.

The newbuild vessel is also set to feature energy storage systems and various sensors to monitor the energy consumption of most of the onboard systems and equipment.

"The data produced by these monitoring systems will provide crew members with an insight into energy consumption, enabling them to respond appropriately," adds the company.