Tilbury Marine Jetty approved in Canada

The current state of air pollution in the Vancouver region presents a significant environmental challenge. Key pollutants such as nitrogen oxides (NOx), black carbon, particulate matter, sulphur oxides (SOx), non-methane volatile organic compounds (NMVOCs), carbon dioxide, and CO2 equivalents (CO2e) contribute to the deteriorating air quality and pose serious health risks to the local population.

The approval of the TMJ project is expected to mitigate these issues substantially. The TMJ project involves constructing a jetty to supply LNG bunkering vessels with refuelling services.

According to FortisBC president and chief executive Roger Dall’Antonia, "This significant milestone allows the project to move forward in its goal of reducing emissions in the marine industry and providing benefits to our local economy, including through our agreement with Musqueam."

A detailed analysis conducted by Affinity Shipping highlights the projected air quality improvements the TMJ project will bring. The study estimates an 84% reduction in NOx emissions, equating to approximately 7,311 tonnes per year.

Similarly, British Columbia’s emissions are expected to decrease by 96%, equivalent to 72 tonnes annually. Particulate matter emissions could be reduced by 90%, or 159 tonnes per year, while SOx emissions may see a 98% reduction, translating to 265 tonnes annually. NMVOCs are projected to decline by 43%, amounting to 205 tonnes per year. Furthermore, lifecycle emissions of CO2e are anticipated to drop by 22% to 27%, depending on the methane scenario, resulting in a reduction of 164,000 to 206,000 tonnes per year.

The health and environmental benefits of these reductions are substantial. By lowering emissions of these harmful pollutants, the TMJ project will significantly improve air quality in the Vancouver area, offering notable health benefits to the local population.

The adoption of high-pressure diesel engines in LNG-powered vessels is crucial for maximising these emissions reductions.

The collaborative efforts between FortisBC and the Musqueam Indian Band exemplify a model of community engagement and partnership. In 2022, FortisBC and Musqueam signed an agreement to work closely on the development of the Tilbury projects, aiming to create a world-leading LNG facility that benefits both the Musqueam community and the region at large.

This partnership underscores the project’s commitment to environmental stewardship and economic development. "We will continue to work closely with Indigenous groups and local communities on environmental mitigation, as well as explore opportunities for training, employment, and contracting," added Mr Dall’Antonia.

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