Vessel, which is expected to be delivered and named in late 2027, will replace Seafuels’ current bunkering vessel Awanuia, which will have served Auckland for 18 years.
Seafuels Orders New Eco-Fuel Bunkering Tanker
Port of Auckland subsidiary Seafuels on Thursday (4 December) announced the signing of a shipbuilding contract that will enable shipping lines to refuel with more sustainable options.
The vessel will replace Seafuels’ current bunkering vessel Awanuia, which will have served Auckland for 18 years.
The shipbuilding contract is with Ada Denizcilik Ve Tersane Isletmeciligi, based in Tuzla, Turkey.
The new 88.8m tanker will be an IMO Class II Chemical Tanker and is expected to be delivered and named in late 2027.
The new USD 50 million project includes the new bunkering vessel which will have the ability to provide two new environmentally friendly fuels, biodiesel and methanol, as well as continuing to supply low-sulphur fuel and marine diesel oil.
New Tanker Marks Major Step in Auckland’s Green Transition
“This tanker is a significant investment in the port’s future and a big milestone in our sustainability journey. We have worked with our shipping line customers to understand their future fuel needs and we’re pleased to be able to offer a practical tool toward lower-carbon intensive shipping,” said Roger Gray, Port of Auckland CEO.
“This investment demonstrates the port’s unwavering commitment to innovation, safety, and sustainability, supporting the global transition to cleaner energy while strengthening our commitment to meet the evolving needs of the maritime industry,” said Allan D’Souza, Seafuels Director.
The shipping industry is responsible for between 2-3% of all global emissions and the International Maritime Organisation has set ambitious 2050 zero emissions goals. Port of Auckland continues to decarbonise as it works towards its zero emissions 2050 goal. The new bunkering vessel follows the ports’ introduction of Sparky, the world’s first full-sized electric tugboat in 2022.
“Achieving these targets requires a significant transition plan to zero-emission alternatives and Port of Auckland is pleased to be able to support this transition for ships in New Zealand,” said Gray.
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Source: manifoldtimes
