A unit of Italian classification society RINA has granted approval in principle to Marine Design and Research Institute of China (MARIC) for an LNG-powered Suezmax tanker.
This is the first such approval for a dual-fuel Suezmax with a 4-stroke engine, according to RINA China.
The 157,000-dwt crude oil tanker also features an “electric power demand system,” it said.
In addition, MARIC worked with Finnish engine manufacturer Wärtsilä on the project, the statement said.
RINA also said the LNG tank will have a capacity of about 3000 cbm.
Worth mentioning here, a recent study by DNV and partners said LNG is currently the “most cost-attractive fuel and fuel technology option available” for slashing tanker emissions.
A growing number of owners and charterers select LNG as fuel for their tankers as the industry looks to comply with more stringent IMO rules.
