LNG has emerged as a prominent alternative fuel and its potential to reduce carbon emissions positions it as a crucial element in the sector’s environmental strategy
Liquefied natural gas (LNG) has emerged as a prominent alternative marine fuel, garnering significant attention in the maritime industry’s ongoing decarbonisation efforts. This topic was thoroughly explored in a discussion* that focussed on how long shipowners would continue to regard LNG as their fuel of choice.
LNG is seen as a crucial transitional fuel as the maritime industry strives towards net-zero emissions. It offers a reduction in carbon emissions compared to traditional marine fuels, positioning itself as an essential element in the industry’s decarbonisation strategy. Lloyd’s Register’s global gas segment director, Panayiotis Mitrou, highlighted the critical nature of risk management for ship operators considering LNG. He stressed the importance of methane management and emissions mitigation strategies, referring to a "portfolio of solutions" necessary to support the transition to carbon-neutral fuels.
Mr Mitrou stated: "The first priority is not to leak any more methane when having LNG as fuel operations." He also discussed the future potential of bio and synthetic LNG, noting their growing traction within the industry and the possibility of integrating these options with carbon capture technologies to enhance their viability.
Avenir LNG’s bunkering commercial director, Jan Schubert, provided a practical perspective on the development of LNG infrastructure. Mr Schubert detailed Avenir LNG’s global expansion efforts in LNG bunkering capabilities, noting: "Our vessels are not only serving our own clients, but we are also chartering out some of them, and that way, we have associations all over the globe." He also highlighted the strategic advantage of existing LNG infrastructure for adopting cleaner LNG variants. However, he acknowledged the challenges associated with integrating bioLNG into the maritime sector, particularly concerning the cost and availability of bioenergy resources.
“The first priority is not to leak any more methane”
James Fisher Tankships’ voyage operations manager, Nicola Ellwood, discussed the operational challenges and strategic initiatives undertaken to facilitate the use of LNG. She outlined their fleet renewal programme aimed at integrating dual-fuel capabilities to enhance environmental performance. "Sir John Fisher and Lady Maria (Fisher) are the first two in our fleet renewal programme ... supporting our environmental strategy for decarbonisation and emissions reduction," Ms Ellwood said.
An opinion poll revealed insights regarding the future of LNG as a marine fuel. Participants expressed moderate optimism about the growth and cost reductions of clean LNG blends, such as bioLNG and synthetic LNG. However, challenges such as the lack of a universally accepted measurement protocol for methane slip and the high costs and operational complexities of methane abatement solutions were highlighted.
Industry case studies showcased recent developments, including Avenir LNG’s new shipbuilding contracts for advanced LNG bunker and supply vessels featuring technologies to reduce carbon emissions and minimise cargo losses.
The journey towards net-zero emissions will likely see a continued evolution of LNG and its cleaner variants, reflecting the industry’s commitment to a sustainable future.
* The Riviera Maritime Media webinar The Future of LNG as a Marine Fuel and the Transition to Net Zero took place on 10 May 2024.
LNG as a marine fuel will be a key discussion at the Crude Tankers & Terminals Conference, Awards & Exhibition 2024 taking place 22 - 23 October 2024 in London. Register your interest here and register your vote for the prestigious Awards here.
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