Portsmouth International Port (Portsmouth Port), one of the UK’s leading ports, has taken a significant step towards a greener future with the successful completion of its first LNG bunkering operation. This milestone marks the beginning of a new era in cleaner maritime fuel options, with the port now offering LNG bunkering services to all vessels operating within and around Portsmouth.
The first LNG bunkering transfer at the port took place when the Saint-Malo, the first of two new electric-hybrid ships from Brittany Ferries, took on LNG fuel from the Optimus, a bunkering barge operated by Titan Clean Fuels. This collaboration comes as part of a long-term agreement between Titan Clean Fuels, the Dutch supplier, and Brittany Ferries, ensuring the availability of LNG to fuel vessels in Portsmouth. The Saint-Malo, which will soon be entering service, is part of Brittany Ferries’ ongoing efforts to reduce its environmental footprint through innovative, cleaner technologies.
The introduction of LNG at Portsmouth International Port provides significant environmental benefits. Compared to traditional heavy marine fuel oils, LNG emits significantly lower levels of harmful particulates, improving air quality and contributing to the health of local communities. Moreover, LNG allows for the blending of BioLNG, derived from organic waste, enabling even more decarbonisation options for the shipping industry. This flexibility in fuel composition provides a crucial avenue for achieving the port’s and industry-wide sustainability goals.
Ben McInnes, Harbour Master at Portsmouth International Port, commented: “We’ve worked hard to ensure that LNG bunkering is both safe and efficient for our customers. Through extensive visits to LNG operations across Europe and the engagement of independent expert consultants, we’ve ensured the highest standards. In addition to our goal of achieving carbon net neutrality by 2030 and becoming emissions-free by 2050, we are also committed to improving air quality for residents in Portsmouth. LNG is a crucial step toward that objective. Later this year, we’ll also be providing clean electricity through our shore power system for vessels, further contributing to the reduction of emissions and paving the way for zero-emission operations for hybrid vessels.”
Portsmouth International Port’s commitment to environmental sustainability extends beyond LNG bunkering. With the installation of a new shore power system, the port will soon offer clean electricity to ships, significantly improving air quality in the harbour. This initiative is particularly impactful for hybrid vessels, which, once plugged into the shore power system, can operate with zero emissions, furthering the port’s sustainability objectives.
Gregoire Hartig, Commercial Director at Titan Clean Fuels, expressed his excitement about the partnership: “We are extremely proud to support Brittany Ferries in its efforts to reduce its environmental impact. As pioneers in delivering LNG and Liquid BioMethane (LBM) to the shipping community, Titan Clean Fuels is committed to making the maritime industry more sustainable and compliant with increasingly stringent environmental regulations. We are thrilled to welcome Brittany Ferries as one of our valued customers.”
The availability of LNG bunkering at Portsmouth International Port is a welcome development for the wider shipping industry, as it opens up new possibilities for cleaner fuel options in one of the UK’s most important maritime hubs. LNG provides a pathway to meeting the decarbonisation targets set by governments and the shipping industry, while simultaneously improving air quality for communities in close proximity to busy ports.
This new development at Portsmouth International Port is a crucial step towards reducing emissions and improving air quality for both local residents and the global shipping industry. The collaboration between Brittany Ferries, Titan Clean Fuels, and Portsmouth International Port is setting a new standard for cleaner, greener maritime operations.
About Titan Clean Fuels
Titan Clean Fuels is a leading independent supplier of low-emission, zero-emission, and net-zero fuels, including LNG, Liquid BioMethane (LBM), and hydrogen-derived e-methane. Based in Amsterdam, Titan Clean Fuels has been a pioneer in providing clean fuel solutions to the shipping industry, helping clients meet environmental sustainability goals and comply with tightening regulations.
About Brittany Ferries
Brittany Ferries is a French maritime transport company and the largest employer of French sailors. The company operates a fleet of 12 vessels and is committed to reducing its environmental footprint through innovative solutions, such as the use of LNG and hybrid technologies. Brittany Ferries plays a key role in driving economic development and tourism across France, the UK, Ireland, and Spain while striving for a more sustainable and eco-friendly future for the shipping industry.
About Portsmouth Port
Portsmouth International Port is one of the UK’s leading ports, playing a crucial role in handling millions of customers and vital cargo across the globe. Owned and operated by Portsmouth City Council, the port has evolved over the years, with plans for further growth. Starting in 1976 with just one route to France, Portsmouth is now known for being Britain’s best-connected port, offering more destinations than any other UK port.
The port has dedicated facilities for cruise customers and handles a wide range of cargo, including project cargo, dry bulk, and fresh produce such as pineapples, sweet potatoes, and bananas. Its strategic location, with fast road connections to London, makes it an ideal starting point for both passengers and cargo.
Portsmouth International Port’s economic impact is considerable, contributing £390 million to the national economy and £189 million to the local economy, while supporting over 5,500 jobs across the region.