Shell will build a specialised LNG bunker vessel to deliver to LNG-fuelled vessels in northwest Europe. The new vessel bunker will be based at the port of Rotterdam in the Netherlands, and will load from the new LNG break bulk terminal and jetty to be constructed by the Gate terminal. It will also be sea-going and, therefore, able to bunker customers at other locations, port of Rotterdam said in its press release.
The vessel will have a capacity to carry 6,500 cubic metres of LNG fuel and will be highly efficient and manoeuvrable. Demand for LNG as a fuel in the shipping industry is increasing, due to emissions reduction requirements scheduled to come into force in January 2015. The new fuel will also enable the industry to comply with future regulations.