In the next few months DNV will develop procedures as an operational standard for the safe bunkering of LNG as a shipping fuel in the port. In addition to this, it will identify the potential risks when there are several LNG-powered ships in Antwerp and consequently several LNG bunkering operations are taking place simultaneously. The developed bunkering procedures will contain measures that cover the port and also the wider community and environment.
Meanwhile, the Antwerp Port Authority continues to actively work to be able to receive LNG-powered vessels. In March 2012 it published a tender for the design and ultimately the construction of an LNG bunkering vessel. This vessel should be operational by 2015 and will be able to deal with the LNG demand of seagoing ships in the Antwerp port. Negotiations with the candidates for this sizeable contract are currently ongoing.
Source: DNV/Antwerp Port Authority