Norway's continuing drive to limit emissions into the atmosphere (this country is one of those trying hard to commit itself to the Kyoto protocol, by restricting greenhouse gases in the period 2008-2112 to a maximum of 1% the 1990 level) is about to enter a new phase. As part of a Public Roads Administration plan to revolutionise the country's extensive ferry services - which has already seen the introduction of the FerryCat with its four Azipull thrusters, the design of a fleet of five coastal ferries to be powered by LNG fuel is taking shape, and the government is expected to approve a specification and select operators for two routes - around Bergen and Stavanger - by the end of this year, with the first ship ready in 2007. A service speed of 22knots is planned - much faster than older-style ferries, possibly using twin engines in an arrangement yet to be decided.
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