Furetank takes first liquefied biogas bunkers

The fuel, which is derived from renewable sources and has similar combustion properties to LNG, was delivered from Skangas parent company Gasum’s biogas facility in Lidköping. The bunker operation saw LBG transferred directly from a tanker truck to the ship.

Lars Höglund, CEO, Furetank, said: “No doubt LBG will be a clear option for us. It is proven by this operation that it can be available from our existing LNG supplier and with at least the same quality as our current LNG fuel.”

Both LNG and LBG consist mainly of methane gas, meaning that existing LNG supply infrastructure can be used without any modifications, including the same trucks, ships, tanks and marine filling stations.

Tommy Mattila, sales and marketing director, Skangas, added: “Improving environmental benefits with renewable biogas is possible because we can use the same infrastructure that we’ve built throughout northern Europe. This means that LNG and LBG will continue to walk hand in hand as the availability of LBG rises.”

Furetank is building five sister vessels to Fure Vinga, all of which will be dual-fuel and can be powered by LBG when available. The vessels will trade in North Europe and will benefit from Skangas’ LNG supply network in the region.

Read The Motorship’s in-depth ship description of the Fure Vinga.