SEA-LNG, an industry coalition advocating for the adoption of LNG as a transitional marine fuel towards decarbonisation in the maritime sector, has emphasized the significant role LNG plays in reducing emissions in shipping. Despite representing just a small fraction of the global fleet, LNG is rapidly maturing and is poised to become the leading alternative fuel for the industry, according to Peter Keller, Chairman of SEA-LNG.
“While the current fleet of LNG-fueled vessels—including around 600 LNG-capable ships and 600 on order, along with another 1,000 LNG carriers and bunker vessels—makes up only a small portion of the global fleet of around 60,000 deep-sea vessels, LNG is advancing faster than other alternative fuels. SEA-LNG estimates that LNG’s pathway to decarbonisation is already two minutes into an hour-long journey, indicating that while much work remains, significant progress is underway.”
Peter Keller, Chairman of SEA-LNG pointed out that LNG’s rapid development contrasts with other alternative fuels. As of now, DNV data shows only 54 methanol-fueled vessels and 2 ammonia-fueled vessels in operation.
He added, “While LNG is still in its adolescent phase, with all the growing pains, challenges, and victories, it is maturing quickly. This is a pathway we can begin to adopt now, whereas other alternatives are in their infancy.”
One key advantage of LNG is its maturity in terms of safety. With over 60 years of global LNG marine transport without major incidents, it remains one of the safest fuel options for maritime operations. LNG has a low flammability range, is non-toxic, and poses minimal risk to the marine environment. It is also easier to transport compared to other fuels, which adds to its growing appeal.
Despite LNG’s significant advantages, SEA-LNG acknowledges that there are still areas in need of investment to support its widespread adoption. In particular, infrastructure for liquefaction, bio and synthetic methane production, and bunkering capacity near ports must be expanded. Keller emphasized that while the demand for LNG-fueled vessels is increasing, the supply chain—especially in terms of bunkering vessels and liquefaction facilities—has yet to catch up. He noted that with high-profile shipping companies increasingly opting for LNG as their future fuel, the trend will likely continue and accelerate well into 2025 and beyond. However, to keep pace with the growing fleet, further investment in LNG bunkering infrastructure is critical.
He also highlighted the importance of adopting standardized chain of custody models for low-carbon fuels, particularly as carbon regulations increase. These models ensure that fuels used in shipping meet emissions standards, boosting investor confidence in alternative fuel supply chains. Such mechanisms, including Physical Segregation, Mass Balancing, and Book & Claim systems, are essential for scaling up green fuel adoption, enabling early adoption, and providing flexibility for shipping companies at lower costs.
In closing, Peter Keller expressed optimism for the future of LNG, stating, “As LNG and its pathway to net zero reach adulthood in the coming years, the rewards for our environment will be substantial. We are laying the groundwork for a cleaner, more sustainable maritime industry, and the LNG pathway remains a low-risk, realistic solution for decarbonisation.”
As a key player in the decarbonisation of shipping, SEA-LNG’s call for more investment in LNG infrastructure and fuel supply chains is critical for ensuring that the LNG-fueled vessels of today and tomorrow can operate sustainably and efficiently.
About SEA-LNG
SEA-LNG is a global coalition of stakeholders in the maritime industry that advocates for LNG as a practical and scalable pathway to decarbonisation. The coalition works to promote LNG as a safer, cleaner, and more economically viable alternative to traditional marine fuels, supporting the industry’s transition to net zero. SEA-LNG collaborates with a wide range of stakeholders, including shipowners, fuel suppliers, and regulatory bodies, to advance LNG as a key solution for the maritime sector’s sustainability goals.
Source SEA-LNG