Successful operation of first LNG bunkering station in the Nordics

Skangas announced that the first ever bunkering station for liquefied natural gas in the Nordics is open and operating successfully. Located in the Port of Risavika, Norway, the facility refuels Fjord Line’s cruise ferries, which are the first – and largest – in the world to use single fueled LNG engines. It features a loading arm, a well-known and safer method of transferring cargo for large oil and LNG terminals.

According to Skangas, this is the first loading arm ever developed purely for bunkering and can provide a much higher rate of transfer (LNG ships have normally been bunkered via hose connections from a truck or a tank). The coupling and de-coupling procedures are faster and more efficient, and monitoring of the operation is much easier. Overall, it provides a better solution for both the supplier and the off taker of LNG.

“There is a world of difference when comparing truck-filling with this new bunkering station”, said Morten Larsen, Technical and Maritime Director of Fjord Line. “The new station greatly reduces the time it takes every week for Fjord Line to refuel. Less time spent refueling provides a quicker turnaround in port, and, therefore, greater efficiency for our ships.”

In 2015, LNG bunkering is estimated to reach approximately 35,000 tons in the Port of Risavika. “We anticipate increasing demand for LNG to fuel ships in the coming years,” commented Tor Morten Osmundsen, CEO of Skangas. “Skangas offers reliable and flexible bunkering services in North-West Europe.”

https://www.ngvjournal.com/successful-operation-of-first-lng-bunkering-station-in-the-nordics/