The CMA CGM Scandola has become the first container ship to be LNG-bunkered in Singapore, paving the way for large vessels to run on the alternative fuel.
In a statement, CMA CGM said the operation was carried out by FueLNG Bellina, Singapore’s first LNG bunkering vessel and is a milestone for cargo operations in Asia.
CMA CGM SCANDOLA is the first of six new 15,000-TEU LNG-powered containerships which CMA CGM Group has lined-up to be bunkered in Singapore this year.
These ships will be deployed on CMA CGM’s MEX 1 service between Asia and the Mediterranean.
It is also the first vessel in Asia to conduct simultaneous container loading and discharging operations alongside LNG bunkering operations, shortening port stay time.
From Singapore, it will set sail with over 14,800 TEU, comprising household goods, electronic items, machinery and personal protection equipment for the Mediterranean, the carrier said.
This is also the first ship-to-ship operation for FueLNG Bellina. Designed and built by Keppel O&M, the 7,500m3 FueLNG Bellina provides more options for shipowners and operators to bunker LNG in Singapore.
FueLNG aims to provide a total of about 30 to 50 ship-to-ship LNG bunkering operations in 2021, extending its track record of over 300 truck-to-ship LNG bunkering operations so far.
Stephane Courquin, Chief Executive Officer of CMA CGM Asia Pacific, said, “CMA CGM is committed to the energy transition in the shipping industry. Today, LNG is the most advanced solution when it comes to preserving air quality.
“This technology is one of the first steps towards achieving CMA CGM Group’s ambitious 2050 objective of carbon neutrality.
“CMA CGM SCANDOLA is the first of more CMA CGM-operated LNG vessels that will undergo simultaneous cargo and LNG bunkering operations in Singapore.
“The Group’s fleet of LNG containerships will grow to 32 by the end of 2022.”
