LNG

LNG spot prices drive fuel uptake

Demand for LNG as a martime transport fuel is growing in Asia on the back of lower prices. Data from Refinitiv Eikon suggests LNG spot prices are roughly $131 per tonne less than very low sulphur fuel oil on average across 2020. Analysts predict that while the gap is set to widen as more supply hits the market over the next few years.

Rotterdam LNG bunker fleet rises to nine

Authorities at the Port of Rotterdam report that a total of nine LNG bunker vessels operate in the port area. “The introduction of these new LNG-powered vessels supports the Port Authority’s ambition to serve as a key hub in the import, export, storage and bunkering of LNG,” a spokesperson for the port said. Between them the nine ships are forecast to bunker 300,000 cubic metres of LNG per year.

GTT orderbook grows

LNG specialist GTT has reported that consolidated revenues were up 53% for the first nine months of 2020, boosted by demand for LNG carriers. "With a total of 38 orders booked since the start of the year for all segments taken together, GTT's commercial activity continue to progress at a firm pace, and LNG demand is maintaining its upward trend, driven by Asia,” Philippe Berterottière, CEO of GTT, said. In addition to 12 LNG carriers booked during the first half of the year, a further 6 orders were booked in the third quarter of 2020, this included an order for 10 ice-breaker LNG carriers. The firm also announced that the Korea Fair Trade Commission had concluded a hearing into the firm’s commercial practices with Korean shipyards. “GTT and its counsels participated in this hearing and previously responded in writing to the preliminary conclusions set out by the Examiner Report. GTT will keep the market informed about the KFTC decision when released,” a spokesperson for GTT said.

MAES adds Londerzeel LNG lanes

Belgium fuel retailer MAES has added LNG fuelling lanes at its MAES Londerzeel site. The firm also announced the introduction of Hydro treated Vegetable Oil (HVO100) fuel at its filling stations in Londerzeel and Ruisbroek, Belgium. The fossil-free fuel marks a first for the firm and provides a high-end diesel substitute. The firm states that HVO100 is the most sustainable fuel for diesel vehicles with 89% less CO2, 30% less particulate matter and 9% less nitrogen oxide as compared to regular diesel.