Six LNG Bunker Vessels Will Be in Operation by End of 2017

Peter Keller, SEA/LNG chairman and Executive Vice President of TOTE. Image Credit: Tote

There will be six liquefied natural gas (LNG) bunkering vessels in operation by the end of 2017, up from just one that was operating at the start of the year, LNG-bunker advocacy group SEA\LNG said today.

"These vessels are key to scaling-up demand for LNG as a marine fuel and delivering fuel in a way that is 'normal' for shipowners. Added to which, new bunkering hubs are developing which will leverage existing bulk LNG infrastructure," the 28-member coalition added.

The comments came as part of a renewed push to highlight LNG's credentials as a candidate to be the alternative bunker fuel of choice for the future.

"LNG will be one of a portfolio of solutions going forward to help lower emissions, creating a more sustainable future for shipping. We recognise that there are barriers and limitations, but we are confident that by working together, we can overcome these hurdles as the industry has always done in the past. We do, however, require a greater sense of urgency and commitment," said SEA/LNG chairman Peter Keller.

SEA\LNG says the "vast majority" of the world's top ten bunkering ports now either offer LNG bunkering or have firm plans to do so by 2020.

"As this LNG bunker market continues to develop, there is already a drive to meet demand for LNG as marine fuel at these and other critical locations," it added.

Highlighting what he sees at the benefits of of the alternative fuel, Keller, who is also Executive Vice President of TOTE, said: "LNG far exceeds alternative options in terms of emissions reductions. It emits zero sulphur oxides (SOx) and virtually zero particulate matter (PM).

"Compared to existing heavy marine fuel oils, LNG emits 90% less nitrogen oxides (NOx) and through the use of best current practices and appropriate technologies to minimise methane leakage, offers the potential for up to a 25% reduction in GHGs. Advancements in dual fuel technology and propulsion, enhanced control systems, and future use of gas turbine technologies present further opportunity for increased GHG reductions."

Also today, SEA\LNG issued a call for the industry as a whole to redouble its commitment to compliance with, and enforcement of, IMO Marpol VI Regulations.