The Busan Port Authority (BPA) successfully demonstrated simultaneous LNG bunkering and container handling using the “Ship to Ship” (STS) method, on 8 August, for an LNG-powered container ship at Busan New Port.
According to Business Korea, the demonstration involved the container ship Visby II, operated by the French shipping company CMA CGM, which was docked at Pier 5 of the New Port. While loading and unloading cargo, a dedicated LNG bunkering vessel connected a hose to the Visby II and supplied 270 tons of LNG. The entire operation took a total of 14 hours.
The Ship to Ship (STS) method of LNG bunkering involves transferring LNG from one vessel to another while both are at sea or docked, allowing for simultaneous cargo handling and fuel bunkering, which increases efficiency and reduces downtime for shipping companies.
As the International Maritime Organization (IMO) strengthens carbon emission regulations, the number of LNG-powered ships is rapidly increasing worldwide. Major ports around the world are accelerating the establishment of LNG bunkering infrastructure. Global shipping companies also prefer the ‘Ship to Ship’ (STS) method of bunkering, which allows for simultaneous handling and bunkering, thereby saving costs.
… the BPA stated
This marks the first time in South Korea that a simultaneous operation of container handling and LNG bunkering was successfully carried out at Busan Port, Business Korea reports.
