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Monjasa said on Wednesday it introduces the UAE’s first dedicated LNG bunkering vessel, Green Zeebrugge.
Previously known as Engie Zeebrugge, the 5,200 cbm bunkering vessel is owned by Japan’s NYK, and it previously worked under charter deals with Shell and Titan.
According to Monjasa, the firm chartered Green Zeebrugge in Amsterdam in November, and the vessel is now en route to the UAE with estimated arrival in Dubai before the New Year.
Monjasa did not provide further details regarding the charter deal.
To establish a viable local LNG bunkering option, port authorities, energy companies, and shipowners are currently working together with Monjasa to finalize the development of adequate LNG bunkering infrastructure.
Through this extended collaboration, Monjasa expects to offer a comprehensive fuel mix, including very low sulfur fuel oil (VLSFO), marine gas oil (MGO), high-sulfur fuel oil (HSFO), biofuels, and LNG at UAE ports going forward.
First LNG bunkering in January 2025
Green Zeebrugge is expected to undergo safety and quality inspections by the local authorities before the New Year and supply Monjasa’s first ever LNG in January 2025, the company said.
Monjasa said its move into LNG bunkering comes at a time when recent DNV data shows that there are now 1,262 LNG-fuelled vessels, of which 613 are trading with a further 649 on order – compared to just 62 LNG-fuelled vessels in 2015.
“Monjasa’s role is to keep challenging the status quo and providing new market opportunities to shipowners who are increasingly looking for ways to decarbonize their vessels,” Monjasa CEO Anders Østergaard said.
“Deploying Green Zeebrugge is the first important step in introducing LNG as a new marine fuel option in the UAE. Looking ahead, continued close collaboration with our local maritime partners is crucial in further exploring new supply chains and positioning the UAE as a leading shipping hub in alternative fuels too,” he said.
