Poland's ORLEN, an energy company, and the Port of Gdynia Authority have entered into an agreement to evaluate the potential for liquefied natural gas (LNG) and bio-liquefied natural gas (bioLNG) as marine fuels. The partnership will focus on several key areas, including analyzing market demand for these alternative fuels, assessing the viability of LNG and bioLNG bunkering operations, and identifying the necessary infrastructure, operational procedures, and regulatory frameworks required to implement such services. A significant aspect of this review will be the feasibility of waterside bunkering, specifically ship-to-ship (STS) transfers.
For freight forwarders and operations managers, this initiative signals a potential future shift in fuel options for vessels calling at Gdynia. The development of LNG and bioLNG bunkering infrastructure could support carriers transitioning to lower-emission fuels, potentially impacting vessel routing decisions and bunker surcharge calculations in the long term. Increased availability of alternative fuels at key ports can contribute to greater supply chain sustainability and compliance with evolving environmental regulations.
