Fluxys and Titan LNG have built the FlexFueler 002 LNG bunkering barge to support the shipping industry in its switch to cleaner operations in the Antwerp port and region.
The vessel will make liquefied natural gas (LNG) more widely available as alternative shipping fuel from its home location at Quay 526/528 from the upcoming February.
The FlexFueler 002 and the other LNG bunkering infrastructure in the port of Antwerp have the benefit of not requiring additional investments to offer fully carbon neutral choices moving forward, according to an announcement.
Titan LNG as the long-term operator of the bunkering barge is confident to make available liquefied biogas (from organic waste) or liquefied synthetic methane (from green hydrogen and captured CO2) to LNG-powered vessels soon after starting operations in February 2021.
The advantage of the FlexFueler 002 is its flexibility, according to Titan LNG, as inland waterway vessels and coasters will have the option to get bunkered with LNG wherever they are loading or unloading their cargo.
The bunkering barge will be operating from Quay 526/528 where Fluxys facilitates truck-to-ship bunkering and Titan LNG operates a permanent bunkering point for inland waterway vessels.
Port of Antwerp said it is currently integrating low carbon fuels in its bunker market with methanol, hydrogen and electrical power expected to follow, becoming available on Antwerp’s bunker market until 2025.
In addition, the major Belgian port will also enhance its fleet with its first tug-boats and enforcement vessels that are powered by electricity, methanol and hydrogen. The world’s first hydrogen-powered tug-boat will make its debut in the port of Antwerp in 2023.
