In a significant step toward greener maritime operations, French container carrier CMA CGM and Italian energy provider Edison have successfully completed Italy’s first containership LNG ship-to-ship bunkering at the Port of Trieste. The operation marks a major milestone in Italy’s transition toward cleaner fuels in shipping and highlights the growing role of LNG in decarbonizing maritime transport.
Milestone for Italy’s Maritime Energy Transition
Edison’s Ravenna Knutsen refuelled the CMA CGM Salamanque, a 2,000 TEU dual-fuel vessel capable of burning both marine diesel and methane. The Ravenna Knutsen, built by HD Hyundai in 2021 and sailing under the French flag, carried out the transfer efficiently, demonstrating Edison’s growing capabilities in LNG bunkering.
Edison stated that the operation “contributes to the gradual spread of LNG-powered fleets in Italian ports” and showcases the company’s ability to open new market segments across the Adriatic. The successful execution also follows Edison’s commitment to expand its LNG infrastructure and support Italy’s decarbonization roadmap.
LNG Supply Challenges Amid Global Shifts
The Trieste bunkering took place just a week after Edison signed a 15-year LNG supply agreement with Shell, under which it will receive 700,000 tonnes of US LNG annually starting in 2028. Currently, Edison imports 14 billion cubic meters of LNG from diverse sources including 6.4 bcm from Qatar and 4.4 bcm from Libya.
However, the company faces potential supply risks as Qatar recently threatened to halt LNG exports to Europe over the EU’s upcoming sustainability regulations. Given that nearly half of Edison’s imports come from Qatar, these developments could impact its role as a leading LNG bunker supplier in Europe.
The successful LNG ship-to-ship bunkering at Trieste signals a new era for Italy’s maritime energy sector, positioning the country among Europe’s growing network of LNG bunkering hubs. While supply uncertainties loom due to global regulatory and geopolitical pressures, Edison’s diversification efforts and technological adaptability underline its resilience and commitment to sustainable shipping solutions.
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Source: Lloyd’s List
