In trend: ships powered by LNG

That's true. Many forecasts predict that LNG will play a key role as a shipping fuel in the next 10 to 15 years. In terms of technology, this will mean a few changes for shipbuilders. The use of LNG means that hazardous areas will be present on ships. In the past, this was not the case. Of course, this must be taken into account with respect to the technical equipment. This affects simple elements, such as light fittings, as well as more complex equipment, such as the automation system. Not to mention, the ship needs to be fuelled with LNG. This requires additional systems and the tanks are specially designed.

The fuelling process must also be planned very precisely in terms of time. Currently, large ships, such as container vessels, require huge amounts of fuel and, at the moment, there are not many bunker stations or bunker vessels. Many shipbuilders will also need to consider that the ships may need to be converted to use a different fuel in the future. Ultimately, of course, we hope that larger quantities of climate-neutral fuels will be available in a couple of years – ammonia, for instance. The technology should therefore make conversion possible at a later date. Some system suppliers are also planning to remove and store the carbon after LNG combustion. This could also be an opportunity to reduce CO₂ missions. The CO₂ s then used to manufacture other products that require CO₂. All in all, there is quite a lot to consider from a technical perspective.

I think this is because LNG is made up of purified, clean gas. It enables emissions to immediately be reduced to an absolute minimum. LNG is also available in sufficient quantities. This means that it can be used immediately, even for large ships on international routes. Another reason is that the technical systems for the drive, as well as everything related to the use of LNG, has already been developed and made available. A lot of green energy is required in the form of electricity for green hydrogen or ammonia. Until green energy can be provided in the required quantities, it will not be possible to meet the needs of the shipping industry. This is precisely why many companies are working on implementing conversion in the near future. To do so, the technical systems need to be adapted and altered. A number of pilot projects are already under way. This fills me with optimism when it comes to future conversion.