French oil and gas giant Total has launched its first large liquefied natural gas bunker vessel (LNG bunker vessel), which is set to operate in Northern Europe next year to supply LNG to commercial vehicles.

In February 2018, Total and MOL signed a long-term charter contract for the LNG bunker vessel, which has secured a commitment to supply 300,000 tons per year for CMA CGM’s nine ultra-large newbuild containerships in Europe-Asia trade, for a minimum period of 10 years.

The LNG bunker vessel is being constructed by Hudong-Zhonghua Shipbuilding at its shipyard near Shanghai. The vessel, which has a capacity of 18,600 cubic meters, is said to be fitted with innovative tank technologies supplied by the French company GTT.

The 135m long vessel, which has been designed to be highly maneuverable, can safely operate in the ports and terminals where it will be deployed.

Total LNG bunker vessel set to operate from 2020. Photo courtesy of Total.

The LNG bunker vessel’s construction is said to align with the International Maritime Organization (IMO) decision to curb the sulfur content of marine fuels drastically as of 2020. In this regard, the transition from heavy fuel oil to LNG is an immediately available solution for maritime transportation that is competitive and efficient, said Total.

According to the French oil and gas giant, LNG used as a marine fuel cuts down emissions from ships by a significant extent, leading to a vast improvement in air quality, especially for communities living in coastal areas and port cities.

Momar Nguer – President for Total Marketing & Services said: “Developing infrastructure like this giant bunker vessel is essential to allow LNG to become a widely used marine fuel.

“This first ship demonstrates our commitment to offering our customers both more environmentally friendly fuels and the associated logistics. Thanks to this pioneering investment, Total is making a positive contribution to the sustainable evolution of global shipping.”

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