Multiple companies retrofit their vessels to LNG propulsion

US shipping company Matson and Norway-based Utkilen have each announced the successful conversion of their vessels to LNG propulsion.

PHOTO: Utkilen’s LNG-propelled tanker Mostraum. Utkilen

Matson's container ship Kaimana Hila has successfully completed its conversion to LNG propulsion, becoming the company’s third vessel to undergo this upgrade, following Daniel K. Inouye and Manukai. Additionally, Matson has three LNG-ready container ships on order from US-based shipbuilder Philly Shipyard.

Meanwhile, Utkilen has successfully retrofitted its tanker Mostraum for LNG propulsion, enabling it to operate on both LNG and marine gas oil (MGO). Utkilen has also announced plans to retrofit three more vessels in its fleet with LNG propulsion by 2025.

According to Utkilen, LNG can reduce carbon dioxide emissions by approximately 15%.

LNG can curb carbon dioxide emissions by about a quarter compared to conventional bunker fuels. But its methane emissions can be 36 times more potent as a greenhouse gas (GHG) compared to carbon dioxide over a century, according to a World Bank study.

By Tuhin Roy

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