Singapore’s first LNG bunker vessel launched in China

Singapore’s first LNG bunkering vessel has been launched at China’s Keppel Nantong Shipyard. The 7,500m³ vessel will be operated by FueLNG, a joint venture between Keppel Offshore & Marine Ltd and Shell Eastern Petroleum (Pte) Ltd and is due for completion in the final quarter of this year.

As the first LNG bunkering facility capable of providing ship-to-ship services, the vessel is the result of collaboration between FueLNG and the Maritime and Port Authority of Singapore which is supporting the growth of LNG as a marine fuel by providing a key service at the world’s largest bunkering hub.

The dual-fuel vessel, capable of operating on LNG or marine diesel, has been designed by Keppel’s technology division, Keppel Marine and Deepwater Technology. Key features include a capability to provide bunkering services without tug assistance, propulsion and power management systems that optimise fuel and emissions performance, high manoeuvrability, and compatibility with a wide range of vessel types. With a supply rate of up to 1,000m³ per hour, the tanker can supply LNG to vessels at heights ranging from 3m to 23m above sea level.

“There is a growing number of LNG-fuelled vessels in the world and FueLNG is well-positioned to seize bunkering opportunities in Singapore,” commented Saunak Rai, general manager of FueLNG. “We have safely completed more than 200 truck-to-ship bunkering operations with no incidents, a testament to our high standards and operational expertise. The vessel will enhance our range of services and boost our efforts to further increase the availability of LNG in the market.”