CMA CGM to Be A Pioneer in Vessels Using LNG
Container carrier CMA CGM and electric utility firm ENGIE have signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) to promote the use of LNG as marine fuel for containerships.
The MoU inked by the two French companies will focus on coming up with a technical and economic study on LNG as marine fuel, and development of engineering specifications for a bunkering vessel adapted to LNG-powered containerships, MANA correspondent reported.
“Liquefied natural gas has many environmental advantages. It is undoubtedly the fuel of the future of the maritime shipping industry that will progressively substitute heavy fuel oil over the next few decades. CMA CGM wishes to be a pioneer in this area,” said Farid Salem, executive officer of CMA CGM.
The use of the clean gas will help container shipping reduce emissions including carbon dioxide, sulphur oxide, nitrogen oxide and particulate matter.
The programs included the development of a dual-fuel containership whose propulsion system offers to choose between using LNG or fuel oil only. Another project aims at designing large containerships using a combined gas and steam turbine system for propulsion.
“For ENGIE, natural gas is a key element in the energy transition. The group is actively engaged in the development of the diverse uses of retail LNG, especially for transportation.