James Fisher plans to add two LNG dual-fuel tankers
James Fisher demonstrates commitment to reducing GHG emissions with plan to add LNG-fuelled vessels
The vessels will be traded by James Fisher Everard (JFE) alongside its’ existing fleet and are the first clean product tankers of this size to incorporate this emissions-reducing propulsion technology.
With the ability to run on both conventional fuel and LNG, the two vessels will also incorporate innovations in design and construction technology to further enhance hydrodynamic performance, to provide improvement in operational efficiency and reduction in greenhouse gas emissions.
This commitment to supporting both the environmental goals of its’ customers and the sustainability goals of James Fisher also allows JFE to contribute to the International Maritime Organisation’s (IMO) commitment to structural GHG reductions.
A study on the impact on use of LNG as a marine propulsion fuel by the Society for Gas as a Marine Fuel, predicted that a reduction in carbon emissions of up to 21% is possible over the entire vessel lifecycle compared with existing marine fuels and leads to significant improvement in local air quality through the reduction of other atmospheric pollutants.
James Fisher has a long history, spanning more than 170 years, of pioneering innovations in the marine industry, having first adopted steam over sail in 1833, and subsequently motor propulsion during the early 20th Century. The first adoption of LNG as a cleaner alternative to conventional oil based propulsion fuels in this class of vessel continues the entrepreneurial spirit of James Fisher, and demonstrates the company’s commitment to its stakeholders and the environment.
Commenting on the addition of LNG dual-fuel capability to the tankship fleet, Eoghan O’Lionaird, Chief Executive Officer James Fisher, said:
“I’m very proud that JFE is taking action now to support our customers, the maritime industry and the group in achieving our collective sustainability goals. James Fisher is committed to protecting the environment, both in terms of our operational footprint and the nature of the activities we undertake. The adoption of LNG dual fuel propulsion vessels is evidence that we are proactively aligning our business choices with customer and environmental needs and demonstrably applying our company values.”
The vessels, specifically designed for ports with restricted access around the coastline of Northern Europe, will enable JFE to better service existing long-term contracts, while the IMO II notation will provide greater flexibility to respond to market demand.
