Axpo, a leading Swiss energy company and a key player in LNG trading, has taken a significant step into the Spanish LNG bunkering market with its first ship-to-ship (STS) LNG delivery to MSC Mediterranean Shipping Company in the Port of Málaga. This milestone operation, conducted via Axpo’s chartered small-scale LNG vessel, underscores the rising demand for LNG as a cleaner and more cost-effective alternative to traditional marine fuels.
2,800 Metric Tonnes of LNG Supplied to MSC’s LNG-Powered Container vessel
For its inaugural ship-to-ship LNG bunkering operation, Axpo supplied approximately 2,800 metric tonnes of LNG to MSC’s container vessel. The use of a small-scale LNG vessel enabled efficient bunkering, reinforcing the company’s commitment to providing sustainable fueling solutions to the shipping sector.
Expansion of Axpo’s LNG Services in Spain
Axpo’s entry into the Spanish LNG bunkering sector is supported by two dedicated small-scale LNG vessels with capacities of 7,500 cubic meters and 12,500 cubic meters, respectively. These vessels are equipped with advanced technology to support not only bunkering but also break-bulk deliveries, gas-up, and cool-down services.
Following the first operation in Málaga, Axpo plans to extend its LNG bunkering services to other major Spanish ports, including Algeciras, Valencia, and Barcelona, further strengthening its presence in the region’s maritime fuel market.
Landmark Operation for Málaga and Spanish LNG Bunkering
The delivery represents a milestone for both the Port of Málaga and the Spanish bunkering sector. It was the first ship-to-ship LNG bunkering operation at the port and the first simultaneous operations (SimOps) by container in Spain. This means LNG bunkering was conducted while cargo loading and unloading activities were carried out, demonstrating an efficient fueling process for modern port operations.
Spain: A Strategic LNG Hub for Axpo
Spain plays a crucial role in Axpo’s LNG business, with the company recently surpassing 100 LNG cargo deliveries to Europe, amounting to a total volume of 76.07 terawatt hours (TWh). The addition of small-scale LNG bunkering further strengthens Axpo’s position in the European LNG market.
Domenico de Luca, Axpo’s Head of Trading & Sales, emphasized the importance of LNG bunkering for sustainable shipping, stating, “LNG bunkering is an efficient and cost-effective solution to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, especially in the shipping industry.”
Axpo’s Head of Small-Scale LNG, Daniele Corti, praised the cooperation with local authorities in Málaga: “We are delighted with the great support we received to realize this milestone and secure our operating license. The new service enables Axpo to provide reliable, attractive, and versatile energy solutions to our customers.”
About Axpo
Axpo is Switzerland’s largest energy producer and a leader in energy trading, with a strong focus on renewable energy solutions. Operating in over 30 countries across Europe, North America, and Asia, Axpo is dedicated to enabling a sustainable future through innovative energy solutions. The company is actively involved in midstream and downstream natural gas and LNG sectors, serving a diverse customer base ranging from SMEs to large industrial enterprises.
Source Axpo Iberia S.L.