Energy group Shell is taking another step [ds_preview]forward for developing LNG projects in the shipping industry. Together with the »Project Forward«, the company investigates the options of supplying LNG-powered vessels and assess the bunker requirements for globally-trading bulk carriers, tankers and container vessels.
Led by bulk carrier owner and operator Arista Shipping and including American Bureau of Shipping (ABS), engineering company Deltamarin, GTT and Wärtsilä, Project Forward has developed a design for ocean going, deep sea vessels powered by LNG fuel. The design is equally suitable for bulk carriers and tankers.
»The widespread adoption of LNG in the marine sector has to overcome obstacles related to bunkering infrastructure. Even though LNG import terminals are available at many ports, the barges and infrastructure needed to undertake the bunkering operations are still at an early stage of development«, the partner said in a statement.
Shell is already taking steps in preparing LNG bunkering infrastructure at different ports around the globe. One example is the Gas Access to Europe (’Gate’) LNG terminal in the Netherlands, where Shell gained access to import and break bulk capacity allowing the company to supply LNG to marine and road transport customers in northwest Europe.
»The design of Project Forward ensures a very long sailing range on LNG, which can easily be adjusted to fit specific needs of each owner or trade pattern. As a result it could be sufficient for LNG-fuelled vessels to bunker LNG at major ports only«, the partner added.
