First LNG-powered LCO2 carrier nears delivery in China

The first of two Northern Lights JV’s LNG-powered liquefied CO2 carriers is undergoing trials in China ahead of its deployment in Europe later this year.

According to a statement by China’s Dalian Shipbuilding Industry (DSIC), the 7,500-cbm Northern Pioneer has completed its sea trials running on diesel on August 28.

DSIC says this is this world’s first LNG dual-fuel LCO2 carrier.

Earlier this year, the shipbuilder launched this vessel and its sister ship Northern Pathfinder.

A spokesperson for Northern Lights previously told LNG Prime that the “first two ship contracts were awarded to DSIC but they are built by DSOC as a contractor.”

The joint venture consisting of Equinor, Shell, and TotalEnergies expects to welcome the two vessels to Norway later this year.

First LNG-powered LCO2 carrier nears delivery in China
Image: DSIC

Japan’s shipping giant K Line entered in February into a charter contract with the JV for a third LNG-powered liquefied CO2 vessel.

This follows the formerly signed contracts for managing the first two LCO2 ships in Northern Lights’ four ship fleet.

In December 2023, Northern Lights also signed a charter deal with Bernhard Schulte for a new LNG-powered CO2 carrier. The ship will be the fourth in line to the sister ships.

The JV expects to take delivery of the third vessel in 2025, while the fourth will be delivered in 2026.

All of the vessels will have LNG dual-fuel propulsion and two type C LCO2 tanks, claimed to be the first such tanks in the world.

Besides LNG power, the 130 meters long vessels feature a wind-assisted propulsion system and air lubrication in order to reduce carbon intensity.

Most Popular

Canada’s Cedar LNG names FLNG

Canada’s Cedar LNG, a joint venture of Canada’s Pembina Pipeline and the Haisla Nation, has picked a name for its floating LNG facility, which will be located in the traditional territory of the Haisla Nation, on Canada’s West Coast.

Golar chairman says FLNG industry set for ‘massive’ growth

Golar LNG will continue to expand its fleet of floating LNG production units in an industry set for "massive" growth, according to Golar LNG's chairman, Tor Olav Trøim.

Energy Transfer, Kyushu Electric ink long-term Lake Charles LNG deal

Energy Transfer, the developer of the proposed Lake Charles LNG export facility in Louisiana, has signed a long-term supply deal with Japan's Kyushu Electric Power.

More News Like This

DSIC delivers MSC’s LNG-fueled containership

China’s Dalian Shipbuilding Industry (DSIC) has delivered a new LNG-fueled containership to Switzerland-based shipping giant MSC.

China’s Hudong-Zhonghua delivers its 50th LNG carrier

Chinese shipbuilder Hudong-Zhonghua has delivered its 50th liquefied natural gas (LNG) carrier.

ONE plans LNG-powered containership order

Ocean Network Express (ONE), a joint venture of Japan's NYK, MOL, and K Line is eyeing an order for LNG dual-fuel container vessels, according to shipbuilding sources.

Norway’s Equinor shuts Hammerfest LNG plant for maintenance

Norwegian energy firm Equinor has closed its 4.3 mtpa Hammerfest liquefied natural gas (LNG) export plant for planned maintenance.