AD Ports Group recently conducted its inaugural ship-to-ship (STS) liquified natural gas (LNG) bunkering operation at its flagship deep-water Khalifa Port. The move reinforces Abu Dhabi’s status as a pivotal hub for alternative marine fuels and sustainable maritime solutions, WAM reported.
Access to lower-carbon fuels
The STS bunkering was part of a simultaneous operation in which the container vessel MSC Thais, berthed at Abu Dhabi Terminals, received LNG fuel from the dedicated LNG bunker vessel Green Zeebrugge, supplied by marine fuels provider Monjasa. This operation showcased the concurrent transfer of LNG and cargo, demonstrating AD Ports Group’s capacity to integrate complex and efficient services into its port infrastructure and operations. It also facilitated access to lower-carbon fuels, aligning with both industry needs and global environmental objectives.
Supporting decarbonization goals
Captain Saif Al Mheiri, CEO of Abu Dhabi Maritime and chief sustainability officer at AD Ports Group, stated, “By adhering to the highest safety and environmental standards, AD Ports Group and Monjasa are ensuring that shipowners have reliable access to a diversified fuel mix that supports their decarbonization objectives. AD Ports Group will continue to explore and implement forward-looking solutions that drive progress toward global sustainability goals.”
Environmental benefits of LNG
Liquified natural gas offers reduced greenhouse gas emissions and significantly lower emissions of sulphur oxide, nitrogen oxide, and particulate matter compared to traditional marine fuels. These environmental benefits underscore the importance of LNG as a cleaner alternative in maritime operations.
Expansion of LNG bunkering services
AD Ports Group and Monjasa are committed to expanding LNG bunkering services across the Group’s commercial ports in Abu Dhabi, including cruise vessels at Zayed Port. They will also provide a comprehensive fuel portfolio that encompasses Very Low Sulphur Fuel Oil (VLSFO), Marine Gas Oil (MGO), and High-Sulfur Fuel Oil (HSFO).
Adherence to international standards
The STS operation was executed in accordance with international best practices and regulatory standards, including LNG bunkering protocols and guidelines established by the International Maritime Organisation (IMO), International Association of Ports and Harbors (IAPH), International Organisation for Standardisation (ISO), and Society of International Gas Tanker and Terminal Operators (SIGTTO).
Accelerating shift toward sustainable marine fuels
With this significant achievement, AD Ports Group is accelerating the transition to sustainable marine fuels while reinforcing Abu Dhabi’s leadership in the global energy transition and advancing the UAE’s Net Zero 2050 Strategy.
