Global LNG bunker vessel fleet to exceed 50 vessels by 2024

摘要

With demand for LNG as a fuel expected to rise to 30M tonnes by 2030, Europe, Asia and North America are adding LNG bunkering vessels to keep pace with the swelling gas-powered fleet. These larger capacity LNG bunker vessels (LNGBVs) on order at shipyards are designed to load at major LNG terminals and refuel gas-powered ocean-going tonnage. Over the next two years, Asia will more than double its fleet, adding eight LNGBVs, while Europe and North America will each increase their fleets by five, according to DNV's Alternative Fleet Insights. Overall, 38 LNGBVs are in operation - 23 in Europe - and 18 under construction, increasing the global fleet to 56 vessels by 2024. In the US, Crowley Maritime is building the country's largest LNG bunker vessel yet, adding a 12,000 m~3 LNG bunker barge for long-term charter to Shell on the US east coast in 2024. Construction is underway at Fincantieri Bay Shipbuilding in Sturgeon Bay, Wisconsin, and contracts have been announced for the procurement of major equipment and components.