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Home ShipmanagementBunkering MARAD releases LNG bunkering study by DNV

MARAD releases LNG bunkering study by DNV

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This article is copied from gcaptain.com blog, dated 08September 2014, by Mike Schuler

The U.S. Maritime Administration (MARAD) has released a comprehensive study examining the options for liquefied natural gas (LNG) bunkering and the necessary infrastructure, safety, regulatory, and training factors of each in supplying LNG to ships as a propulsion fuel in the maritime sector.

The study, which was carried out by classification society DNV GL, examines the pros and cons of four bunkering options (truck-to-ship transfer, shore facility-to-ship transfer, ship-to-ship transfer, and transfer of portable tanks) based on factors such as the number and type of vessels to be served, local availability of LNG, port size, congestion and level of activity. The study also makes recommendations to regulators, port operators, vessel operators and LNG infrastructure owners on ways to address the challenges associated with widespread use of LNG as a marine propulsion fuel and provides information to help them decide which method may be most appropriate for their needs.

MARAD notes that LNG is becoming an attractive fuel choice for many vessels to meet and exceed air quality standards set forth North American Emission Control Area (ECA), and the price of LNG is significantly lower than ECA-compliant fuel. However, because the use of LNG as a marine propulsion fuel is a relatively new concept in the U.S., there are significant safety and regulatory gaps. In addition, there are several challenges related to the development of a national infrastructure for LNG bunkering.

The report followed MARAD’s recently released “Total Fuel Cycle Report for Natural Gas”, which evaluated the total fuel cycle emissions for natural gas versus conventional marine fuels and confirmed that the use of natural gas as a propulsion fuel can in fact reduce air quality pollutants and reduce major greenhouse gas emissions compared to conventional fuel.

About DNV GL

Driven by its purpose of safeguarding life, property and the environment, DNV GL enables organisations to advance the safety and sustainability of their business. DNV GL provides classification and technical assurance along with software and independent expert advisory services to the maritime, oil & gas and energy industries. It also provides certification services to customers across a wide range of industries.

Combining leading technical and operational expertise, risk methodology and in-depth industry knowledge, DNV GL empowers its customers’ decisions and actions with trust and confidence. The company continuously invests in research and collaborative innovation to provide customers and society with operational and technological foresight.

Established in 1864, DNV GL operates globally in more than 100 countries with over 16, 000 professionals dedicated to helping their customers make the world safer, smarter and greener.

“Jo”

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