Titan, a leading provider of liquefied natural gas (LNG) and liquefied biomethane (LBM) to the maritime industry, has been granted a permanent truck-to-ship (TTS) LNG bunkering license for the Port of Le Havre, marking a significant expansion of its LNG supply capabilities in the region. This development allows Titan to officially provide truck-to-ship LNG bunkering services in addition to its existing ship-to-ship (STS) operations at the port.
First TTS Operation at Le Havre for Furetank
In early February, Titan deployed five trucks to complete an LNG bunkering operation for Furetank’s vessel Fure Viskär, demonstrating its capability to supply LNG via truck-to-ship (TTS) at the Port of Le Havre. While Titan has already been offering ship-to-ship (STS) bunkering at the port, it can now officially provide regular TTS bunkering as well.
Enhancing LNG Bunkering Flexibility
While ship-to-ship (STS) LNG bunkering has grown in popularity, Titan remains committed to providing a diverse range of bunkering solutions to meet the varying needs of its customers. The ability to offer both STS and TTS options allows for greater flexibility in LNG supply, particularly in ports where STS bunkering infrastructure may be limited or where TTS bunkering is more operationally efficient.
Titan’s TTS bunkering operations leverage dedicated infrastructure and accredited delivery protocols, ensuring that multiple trucks can discharge simultaneously. This setup minimizes operational downtime and enhances the overall efficiency of LNG refueling for vessels.
Proven Safety and Advantages of LNG as a Marine Fuel
LNG has been safely transported, handled, and bunkered at ports worldwide for over 60 years with no major incidents. Its established safety record, combined with its advantages in emissions reduction, cost efficiency, and availability, makes LNG an increasingly attractive marine fuel choice. Furetank and other longstanding Titan customers recognize these benefits and continue to rely on LNG to support their sustainability and operational objectives.
Pathway to a Greener Future: LNG, LBM, and Hydrogen-Derived Methane
Titan highlights the role of LNG in the transition to cleaner marine fuels. LNG, composed primarily of methane (CH4), is produced at major gas fields in locations such as Norway and Qatar. When cooled to -160°C, LNG becomes a liquid, reducing its volume by 600 times, which enables cost-effective transportation and storage.
As a future-proof fuel, LNG is fully interchangeable with liquefied biomethane (LBM), also known as BioLNG. Additionally, advancements in hydrogen-derived methane technology further reinforce LNG’s long-term potential as a sustainable marine fuel.
Titan’s LNG Bunkering Capabilities: STS and TTS Services
Titan is a leading independent physical supplier of LNG and BioLNG, holding ISO 9001 certification and accreditation from the International Association of Ports and Harbors (IAPH). The company’s LNG bunkering operations span multiple regions, offering both ship-to-ship and truck-to-ship solutions:
- Ship-to-Ship (STS) Bunkering: Titan owns and operates two FlexFueler barges, each with a capacity of 1,500 m³ and a transfer rate of 500 m³/h, stationed in Amsterdam and Antwerp. These bunker vessels enable simultaneous operations (SIMOPS), allowing vessels to refuel while conducting cargo operations.
- Truck-to-Ship (TTS) Bunkering: Titan conducts daily TTS LNG deliveries in key European ports, including the Netherlands, Germany, Belgium, France, and the UK. The company utilizes its own LNG trailers, as well as time-chartered and spot-chartered units, to facilitate short lead times and efficient refueling. With accredited delivery protocols, Titan can execute multiple-truck discharges, significantly reducing bunkering time compared to sequential truck deliveries.
Global LNG Bunkering Expertise
Beyond Europe, Titan has successfully delivered LNG bunkers in various locations, including Indonesia, Singapore, the Mediterranean, the Cape Verde Islands, and the Caribbean. The company’s independent supplier status allows it to work closely with customers and partner suppliers to optimize LNG supply chains, ensuring cost efficiency and seamless compatibility between vessels and bunkering assets.
Titan also maintains long-term charters for LNG bunkering vessels (LBVs) to support ship-to-ship operations worldwide. These vessels are equipped with proprietary transfer equipment and can be chartered for varying periods, offering the flexibility to scale up for special projects and expand Titan’s global LNG supply footprint.
With the permanent TTS license for the Port of Le Havre, Titan continues to strengthen its LNG bunkering network, reinforcing its position as a key player in the maritime energy transition. By offering both truck-to-ship and ship-to-ship LNG bunkering solutions, Titan enhances its ability to serve the growing demand for LNG and BioLNG as sustainable marine fuels. This milestone further supports the broader adoption of LNG as a viable pathway toward decarbonizing the shipping industry.
Source Titan Clean Fuels