As the LNG‑capable fleet continues to expand, demand for low‑GHG methane, including bio-methane and e‑methane, is expected to grow in the coming decades. With around 800 LNG‑capable ships in operation and more than 600 on order, the maritime sector has already established a scale of deployment, operational experience, and safety standards that sets LNG apart from other alternative fuels.
DNV’s white paper examines how this existing LNG fleet and infrastructure can ease the transition to low‑GHG methane. The study finds that liquefied bio-methane and e‑methane are fully compatible with today’s LNG engines, tanks, and bunkering systems, making them true drop‑in fuels. LNG bunkering infrastructure has also matured rapidly, with availability now established at all major bunker hubs along key trade routes.
The paper also explores the key barriers to wider adoption, including fuel cost and upstream availability, competition with other sectors, and the importance of Chain of Custody models. In addition, it discusses regulatory drivers such as FuelEU Maritime, EU ETS, and the proposed IMO Net‑Zero Framework, as well as operational challenges like crew competence and methane slip.
In addition, the white paper explores future demand scenarios under different regulatory pathways, the role of Chain of Custody models in improving access to low‑GHG methane, and operational considerations such as crew competence and methane slip. It highlights that while global production potential is large, limited volumes can already support early adoption and regional compliance.
Download the paper to gain insight into how low‑GHG methane can build on existing LNG investments, the conditions required for its long‑term viability as a marine fuel, and the role it could play in shipping’s broader decarbonization strategy.
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