ABS has signed a pioneering Joint Development Program (JDP) with probunkers, the new LNG bunkering project, to provide technical support as they embark on designing a fleet of specialist LNG bunker vessels for key ports around the world.
The probunkers project, introduced on 5 June on the sidelines of Posidonia 2018, is intended to contribute to the development of LNG marine infrastructure by providing reliable LNG bunkering services.
Based in Athens, it aims to design, build, own and operate a fleet of LNG supply vessels in seven ports initially:
- Houston;
- Rotterdam (or, alternatively, Antwerp);
- Gibraltar;
- Singapore;
- Hong Kong;
- Busan;
- Fujairah.
In an exclusive interview with SAFETY4SEA at Posidonia, Mr. Panos Yannoulis, President & Chairman of probunkers, said that investment in probunkers is a key step toward a more sustainable future for the industry, as the project is expected to add considerable effort and accelerate progress in LNG infrastructure.
Commenting on the signing, ABS Vice President for Global Business Development, Peter Fitzpatrick, said:
With its low sulfur emissions, LNG is an attractive proposition for shipowners and operators responding to the 2020 Sulphur Cap. However, lack of bunkering infrastructure has been one of the key constraints on its adoption. ABS is proud to play a part in addressing that issue with probunkers.
ABS will work with probunkers to provide regulatory compliance guidance for the fleet as well as define applicable rules and standards. ABS will also identify technical and operational challenges and advise on technological solutions in a range of areas including, but not limited to, capacity, dimensions of the vessels in relation to port restrictions, required power and speed, propulsion and maneuvering systems.
Suitability analysis of available technologies for cargo containment, LNG Handling & Transfer Systems and Boil-Off Handling Systems is also a significant aspect of the JDP.
Alexander Prokopakis, probunkers Chief Executive, said:
Our vision is to become the premier global bunker supplier of LNG. Our collaboration with ABS will play a key role in realizing our ambition to build a reliable global-scale bunkering network that will support the future of Sustainable Shipping and Green Energy.