EU funded study for LNG vessels

This follows the news earlier this week that the European Commission had launched a legislative package aimed at obliging core ports to get equipped with LNG facilities by 2020.

The study, which was selected for funding under the 2011 TEN-T Annual Call, will examine the technical requirements, regulations and environmental operation permits that need to be met in order to shift from traditionally fuelled engines to LNG.

Specific aspects related to the manufacturing, conversion, certification and operation phases of a LNG fuelled vessel will be analysed. The results will then be exchanged with other ongoing LNG-related projects as well as with the European Maritime Safety Agency. The project is set to be completed by the end of 2014.

The study will be implemented in a partnership with stakeholders consisting of ship-owners, cargo owners, LNG suppliers, ports and marine equipment manufacturers.

Funding beneficiaries and implementing bodies involved include: Viking Line, which has recently launched the dual fuel cruiser, the Viking Grace, Det Norske Veritas, SSPA Sweden, Sirius Rederi, Preem, Fartygskonstruktioner and Svensk Rederiservice.