LNG bunkering tankers in marine ports: validation of demand in numbers

Abstract

Object and purpose of research. The paper considers specialist vessels for re-fueling gas-engined ships, so-called LNG bunkering tankers (LNG bunkering ship as per the Russian Maritime Register of Shipping). The purpose is to formulate recommendations regarding the bunkering tanker fleet configuration for a marine port taking into consideration their functioning model and projected demand for natural gas motor fuel. Subject matter and methods. Operational experience of the ship type under consideration as well as the performance factors have been generalized and analyzed. Statistics of bunkering companies operating on the St. Petersburg port market have been collected and systematized enabling us to give recommendations for the projected fuel demand. Main results. Operational characteristics of bunkering tankers in the port bunkering infrastructure have been generalized. An approach is suggested for justifying the required number of LNG re-fueling tankers based on the game theory. The main factors defining the volumes of LNG fuel required in port are highlighted. A case study is given for validation of the bunkering tanker demand in numbers for the port of St. Petersburg. Conclusion. Bunkering tankers are a key link in the bunkering infrastructure of any harbor. LNG tankers are growing in numbers every year, which is related to more stringent requirements for environment pollution and reduced discharges from vessels in operation. This study enables justification of bunkering tanker numbers early in the design of a port bunkering infrastructure.

Keywords

• bunkering tanker
• liquefied natural gas (lng)
• level of demand
• ship calls
• game theory