Los Angeles, Long Beach ports prioritize methanol and LNG bunkering
In the United States, the ports of Los Angeles and Long Beach identified methanol and LNG as the most viable near- and medium-term marine fuel options in an Oct. 28 study examining future demand and infrastructure needs for lower-emission shipping.
The assessment forecasts annual demand by 2030 of 64,000 to 250,000 tonnes of methanol and 65,000 to 115,000 tonnes of LNG, depending on market conditions and vessel deployment.
Methanol has an infrastructure advantage. Existing storage and distribution facilities could accommodate early bunkering operations without major new investment. For LNG, the ports favor ship-to-ship fueling rather than constructing additional storage facilities.
The findings will guide a joint request for proposals expected by year-end to demonstrate alternative fuel bunkering capabilities. The ports also plan to encourage early methanol use and work with regulators on safety and permitting requirements.
Category: Sustainable Marine Fuels
