LNG shipping processes are being transformed to meet the challenges of a rapidly changing global operating environment. This paper will examine the case for change in LNG shipping and share experiences from the industry's largest operator in driving efficiencies to improve safety, cost and environmental performance. It will also propose future opportunities for the LNG shipping industry to embed common operational standards.
The increase in LNG producers, consumers and shipping routes, coupled with economic volatility, fuel cost pressures and stricter emissions controls will make traditional LNG shipping practices unsustainable in the future. The LNG shipping industry must modernise its processes, learn from other industries and apply new technologies to succeed in this challenging environment. The airline business provides a compelling example of how safe and efficient operations can be delivered consistently across a global industry, underpinned by common standards.
The world's largest LNG shipping operator delivers around 35 million tonnes of LNG per year and has embarked on an efficiency programme to safely drive down costs and emissions on voyages by the 43 LNG ships it manages.
Working with stakeholders, it analysed and identified efficiency improvements in more than 100 activities from arrival to discharge and maintenance. Improvements saved around 123 ship days in 2013 alone and include:
Reducing berth times through advance planning on turnaround by crew and terminal staff.
Increasing filling limits to enable additional LNG cargo/voyage.
Reducing fuel consumption by enhancing vessels and equipment.
Co-mingling of bunkers.
Implementing night port transits.
Accelerating dry-docking projects.
