SEA\LNG Gains Yokohama-Kawasaki International Port Corporation as Newest Member

YKIP's addition to SEA\LNG is noted to take the coalition's membership to 26.
Image Credit: SEA\LNG

SEA\LNG today announced that Yokohama-Kawasaki International Port Corporation (YKIP) has become the newest member of the cross-industry coalition intended accelerate the adoption of liquefied natural gas (LNG) as marine fuel.

SEA\LNG says that Japan is said to be "well placed" in terms of both infrastructure and supply to become a major LNG bunkering hub.

"From a geographical perspective, the ports of Yokohama and Kawasaki are perfectly placed to serve as the first or last bunkering points on the Asian side of the Trans-Pacific route," said Masamichi Morooka, President and CEO of YKIP.

"Since August 2015, the port of Yokohama has accommodated an LNG-fuelled tugboat, NYK-owned Sakigake, which has provided us with LNG bunkering experience and enabled YKIP to develop its understanding of technical improvements and safety management. Working with the SEA\LNG coalition, we aim to play our part in encouraging adoption of LNG across the globe and increase awareness of the advantages for ports."

YKIP's addition to SEA\LNG is noted to take the coalition's membership to 26 - a development SEA\LNG says highlights the industry's "growing recognition of LNG as a cost effective, safe, and more environmentally friendly long-term fuelling solution."

Peter Keller, SEA\LNG Chairman and Executive Vice President of TOTE Inc., commenting on the latest development, said: "ports around the world are taking LNG seriously. As customers begin to adopt LNG as a viable, scalable solution, ports are recognising that it's an essential part of a strong future fuel offering.

"Representing the ports of Yokohama and Kawasaki, YKIP is well placed to share its learnings in relation to infrastructure development, effective port operations, and customer needs, and we know that the coalition will benefit from its perspective on unlocking the potential for LNG as a marine fuel. We welcome YKIP under the leadership of Masamichi Morooka."

In May, Japan-based Marubeni Corporation (Marubeni) also became a member of SEA\LNG.