Port of Yokohama to Get LNG Fuel Supply Base?

Japanese shipping company NYK Line is teaming up with the country’s transport and economy ministries as well as representatives from Tokyo Gas in a study group that will explore possibilities for establishment of an LNG fueling station in the Port of Yokohama.

The study group is scheduled to hold its first meeting on June 9th when its members will consider LNG bunkering station using the Port of Yokohama as a model case. Among the items on the agenda to be considered are technological and infrastructural requirements, along with the accompanying costs. The group aims at completing the infrastructure plan for the project by the end of the year.

Initial estimates anticipate that upgrading of port facilities and purchasing fueling ships could cost around USD 93.1 million.

NYK Line has already introduced tugs running on LNG and has ordered construction of the first LNG-fuelled car carries.

On the other hand, Tokyo Gas has set up an LNG Terminal in Yokohama that could be used for the project.

Hence, both companies have an extensive knowledge on LNG that is seen as one of the top fuel alternatives of the future due to its environmental benefits, in particular, taking into account the ever more rigid environmental regulations on shipping.

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World Maritime News Staff