LNG Bunker Port in Netherlands a Step Closer
A plan has been tabled to build an LNG 'filling station' in the Port of Rotterdam
The plan for making liquefied gas (LNG) available as fuel for shipping in the Netherlands has come another step closer. According to Hans Smits, CEO of the Port of Rotterdam Authority, an agreement with ECT will make land available for a ‘filling station’ between the Gate (LNG) and Euromax (containers) terminals. ECT and the Port Authority are still to work out the last details and sign the agreement.
Smits revealed this at a meeting at which ten companies, including Vopak, Shell and the Port of Rotterdam Authority, signed a ‘Green Deal’ with Minister Maxime Verhagen (Economic Affairs).
At the end of last year, Vopak and Gasunie opened the large GATE LNG terminal on the Maasvlakte, but the liquefied gas delivered by the supertankers is destined mainly for power stations. Vopak wants to build a smaller outbound terminal next to Gate so the LNG can also be supplied as fuel for ships.
This terminal is also intended to provide liquefied gas to other LNG stations yet to be built in the country. This investment involves an amount of €40 million and the terminal must be ready by the end of 2014.
Using LNG instead of fuel oil will significantly reduce the emissions of greenhouse gases, sulphur and particulate matter. In 2015 it should be possible for at least 50 inland vessels, 50 ocean-going ships and 500 trucks to run on LNG.