Oman is set to establish the Middle East’s first LNG bunkering facility at the Port of Sohar, following the groundbreaking of the $1.6 billion Marsa LNG plant. This project, a collaboration between TotalEnergies and OQEP, aims to position Oman as a key LNG hub, with operations expected to begin in early 2028.
The first LNG bunkering for cruise passenger ships in Asia Pacific was successfully completed at the Singapore Cruise Centre, a milestone for the industry. TotalEnergies Marine Fuels, V.Ships, and Mitsui O.S.K. Lines delivered LNG to Silversea’s Silver Nova, ensuring compliance with safety standards for smooth operations. Industry leaders highlighted the significance of collaboration and readiness.
Seaspan Energy recently made history by completing the first ship-to-ship LNG bunkering in Canada at the Port of Vancouver. The Seaspan Lions conducted the operation to a tanker named after the Twin Sisters of the North Shore. This milestone showcases Seaspan’s commitment to sustainable and efficient bunkering solutions in the maritime industry.
The Maritime and Port Authority of Singapore (MPA) is inviting proposals to expand LNG bunkering services. The EOI aims to boost sea-based LNG reloading, offer e-methane or bio-methane as marine fuel, and develop floating platforms for bunkering safety. Trials will be conducted to validate proposed solutions, supporting the growth of LNG as a sustainable marine fuel.
Japan’s first LNG bunkering vessel, Kaguya, reached a significant milestone by completing its 100th ship-to-ship supply of LNG fuel. This showcases Japan’s dedication to cleaner energy solutions. The vessel refueled the car carrier Sakura Leader in Aichi Prefecture, demonstrating the efficiency and reliability of LNG as a marine fuel.
Eni has partnered with Avenir LNG to charter the LNG bunker vessel Avenir Aspiration, supporting its growth in the LNG bunkering market. The vessel will supply LNG to ships, meeting environmental standards. This move reflects Eni’s commitment to sustainability and decarbonization in the maritime sector, promoting cleaner fuels for a greener future.
Peninsula, a leader in marine energy solutions, successfully bunkered the Thor Highway car carrier with LNG in Gibraltar. Operated by “K” LINE, the vessel showcases a commitment to lower carbon shipping. Peninsula’s Tokyo office played a key role in the operation, highlighting their expertise in providing sustainable fuel options. The partnership reflects Peninsula’s dedication to leading the marine energy transition.
Equinor ASA (EQNR) has extended its partnership with Gasum for LNG bunkering, ensuring supply to Equinor’s fleet. Gasum’s specialized vessels showcase operational readiness, supporting Equinor’s sustainability goals. Both companies prioritize reducing emissions, with Equinor aiming for net-zero emissions by 2050. The renewed agreement highlights the importance of strategic partnerships in advancing sustainability in the maritime industry through the use of LNG and bio-LNG.
In 2023, sales of biofuels and LNG rose to 51.82 million tonnes, exceeding the previous record of 50.6 million tons. Container throughput also reached a record high of 39.01 million 20-foot equivalent units (TEU), while ship arrival tonnage exceeded 3 billion gross tonnage (GT) for the first time. Biofuel blend bunker sales reached 520,000 tonnes, and LNG bunker sales rose to 110,000 tonnes.
