Project Forward joins forces with Shell for next phase
Innovative plan for globally-trading LNG-powered bulk carrier and tanker design will work with energy major to investigate LNG supply options and requirements
Athens, Greece, September 26, 2016. Project Forward and Shell have come together to discuss and investigate the options of supplying the LNG-fueled vessels and assess the bunker requirements for globally-trading bulk carriers, tankers and container vessels.
Led by Arista Shipping, an experienced bulk carrier owner and operator and including the resources of ABS, Deltamarin, GTT and Wärtsilä, Project Forward has developed a technically feasible and commercially viable design for ocean going, deep sea vessels powered by LNG Fuel, equally suitable for bulk carriers and tankers.
The widespread adoption of LNG in the marine sector is principally hindered by obstacles related to the bunkering infrastructure. Even though the LNG is available at many ports, the barges and infrastructure needed to undertake the bunkering operations are not available.
“Merchant shipping is under increased pressure of tight emissions regulations from a range of sources and this will continue in future,” says Arista Shipping Principal Alexander P Panagopulos. “LNG as a Marine Fuel, is a cost-competitive and cleaner burning fuel for shipping. It can help ship owners and operators to reduce sulphur emissions, particulates and nitrogen oxides, and reduce well-to-wheel greenhouse gas emissions.”
As a pioneer and a leader in the LNG industry, Shell is already taking large steps in preparing LNG bunkering infrastructure at different ports around the globe that will accelerate the widespread adoption of LNG as a marine fuel.
The design of Project Forward ensures a very long sailing range on LNG, which can easily be adjusted to fit specific needs of each owner or trade pattern. As a result it could be sufficient for LNG-fueled vessels to bunker LNG at major ports, where Arista Shipping feels the establishment of bunkering locations needs to be accelerated in order to cover the needs of an emerging and rapidly expanding demand.
Together, the project partners, all of which are highly experienced with LNG vessel operations and LNG as marine fuel, are working towards one common goal; making the launch of a first bulk carrier vessel with the innovative Project Forward design feasible within the next two years.
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For further information and interview opportunities, please contact: Neville Smith, neville.smith@marinercommunications.co.uk, cell: +44 7909 960 182.
Visualisation of Project Forward LNG-fueled bulk carrier, image credit: Deltamarin.
High resolution version available on request.