Photo: Skangas
The first European-built LNG bunkering vessel has conducted its first ship-to-ship transfer of LNG bunker fuel.
The operation took place in international waters in the Northern Kattegat between Frederikshavn, Denmark and Gothenburg, Sweden.
Skangas took the delivery of the 5,800 cbm MV Coralius earlier this month from the Royal Bodewes shipyard in Eemshaven, Netherlands. The purpose-built LNG bunkering vessel features state-of-the-art LNG transfer equipment that allows it to conduct safe and efficient fuel transfers at sea, not just in port.
The receiving vessel during the operation was the 144-meter oil and chemical tanker Fure West. In 2015, its managers, Furetank Rederi, retroffited the tanker from conventional heavy fuel oil to LNG fuel. The vessel operates mainly in the Baltic and Kattegat area.
“The bunkering of Fure West confirmed that Coralius delivers in accordance with what she is built for”, says Kimmo Rahkamo, CEO of Skangas. “This is a key milestone in our history of developing the LNG availability. We are happy working together with our customer Furetank for this first of several upcoming ship-to-ship bunkerings.”
The use of clean-burning liquefied natural gas as a marine fuel not only significantly reduces a harmful ship emissions, but it is also ensures compliance with all current and upcoming IMO and EU environmental regulations.
“Skangas expects the LNG demand for ships to increase significantly in next few years as responsible shipping companies are seeking cleaner fuel alternatives,” the company said.
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