Orders for alternative-fuelled ships have lost momentum in 2026, with DNV data showing 119 vessels contracted in the first five months of the year and a lower share of total tonnage than in the same period of 2025, according to DNV’s Alternative Fuels Insight platform.
The figures show 36 new orders for alternative-fuelled vessels in May 2026. LNG remained the largest alternative-fuel segment in the 2026 orderbook, with 60 ships ordered so far this year.
LPG and ethane carriers accounted for 50 orders, while methanol/ethanol and ammonia each accounted for four ships. Hydrogen accounted for one vessel. May activity was led by LPG/ethane carriers, with 26 vessels ordered. LNG-fuelled ships accounted for eight orders, comprising six container ships and two car carriers. Two ethanol-fuelled bulk carriers were also ordered.
Jason Stefanatos, global decarbonization director at DNV Maritime, said owners were increasingly treating fuel choice as “a portfolio decision”, balancing fuel optionality, investment timing and future regulatory exposure.
The figures underline a slower and more fragmented ordering pattern for alternative-fuelled tonnage, with container ships still leading contracting while activity extends into tanker and bulker segments.
DNV is a Norway-based classification society and technical assurance organisation. Its maritime business provides classification, certification, technical advisory and digital services to shipowners, shipyards, flag administrations and other maritime stakeholders.
DNV Maritime is the group’s maritime division, covering vessel classification, statutory certification, safety standards, decarbonisation advice and technical support for ships and offshore assets.