LNG demand in Adriatic ports to rise, investment lacking

Studies developed under the TEN-T Costa II East – Poseidon Med reveal that Adriatic ports of Koper, Trieste and Rijeka expect a 20,000-ton demand for LNG from 2030 onwards.

The studies presented at a seminar in the port of Koper on Wednesday, under the Costa II East – Poseidon Med program showed that the three ports would have a similar level of demand for LNG that would be used by vessels, trucks and port equipment.

The port of Rijeka could largely benefit from the proposed LNG terminal on the island of Krk. The construction of the terminal is expected to start in 2018.

The port of Venice, however, expects a higher demand which is why the port authorities are studying the possibility of setting up a dedicated storage infrastructure. Venice expects its demand for LNG in maritime transport to reach 160,584 tons by 2030, while total LNG consumption would reach 794.207 tons.

The four ports combined are expected to use around 950,000 tons of LNG from 2030.

Speaking at the gathering, Lloyd’s Register’s Mario Croce and Marco Nardo said that the critical aspect of any future development of LNG as fuel is the lack of established bunkering infrastructure and supply chain network.

This is also seen as an obstacle by gas providers as they are unwilling to invest in the infrastructure before there is sufficient demand for LNG as fuel. Shipowners are also holding any investment in LNG-fueled newbuilds due to lack of LNG bunkering options.

The Costa II East – Poseidon Med, implemented under the EU’s TEN-T program is aimed at developing a strategy for the promotion of LNG as marine fuel and looks into how LNG could be used to reduce emissions in the Mediterranean. The project also focuses on preparing a detailed infrastructure development plan promoting the adoption of LNG as marine fuel for shipping operations. It will also design an LNG transport, distribution, and supply (including bunkering) network and infrastructure and define the framework for a sustainable relative market (vessels) for its demand.

 

LNG World News Staff