Project Forward in talks with Shell

Project Forward has announced that it has combined with Shell to discuss and investigate the options of supplying LNG-powered vessels. They will also assess the bunker requirements for globally-trading bulk carriers, tankers and container vessels.

Led by Arista Shipping and including the resources of ABS, Deltamarin, Gaztransport & Technigaz (GTT) and Wärtsilä, Project Forward has developed a technically feasible and commercially viable design for ocean going, deep sea vessels powered by LNG fuel. The design is equally suitable for bulk carriers and tankers.

Arista Shipping Principal, Alexander P Panagopulos, said: “Merchant shipping is under increased pressure of tight regulations on emissions from a range of sources and this will continue in future […] LNG is a cleaner burning marine fuel for shipping which can help ship owners and operators to reduce emissions of CO₂, sulfur, particulates and nitrogen oxides.”

The design of Project Forward ensures a long sailing range on LNG, which can be adjusted to fit specific needs of each owner or trade pattern. As a result, it could be sufficient for LNG-fuelled vessels to bunker LNG at major ports only. Arista Shipping feels the establishment of bunkering locations needs to be concentrated in these major ports and the development accelerated in order to meet this emerging and rapidly expanding demand.

Together, the Project Forward partners are working towards one common goal; making the launch of a first bulk carrier vessel with the innovative Project Forward design feasible within the next few years.

Edited from press release by Callum O'Reilly

Read the article online at: https://www.lngindustry.com/small-scale-lng/26092016/project-forward-in-talks-with-shell-3094/