Titan Clean Fuels (Titan), a leading independent supplier of low-emission marine fuels, has successfully completed its first LNG and liquefied biomethane (bio-LNG) bunkering operation under a new multi-delivery contract with leading global shipping company, Mitsui O.S.K. Lines (MOL). This milestone highlights the growing shift towards bio-LNG as a low-carbon marine fuel in the car carrier sector, with MOL leading the way among Japanese shipping companies.
First Bio-LNG Bunkering for MOL’s Vehicle Carrier Fleet
On March 16, Titan’s LNG bunkering vessel, Alice Cosulich, delivered 500 tons of bio-LNG and 400 tons of conventional LNG to the Celeste Ace, a MOL-operated vehicle carrier. The bunkering operation took place at the International Car Operators (ICO) terminal in the Port of Zeebrugge and was conducted as a simultaneous operation (SIMOPS), ensuring efficient fueling without disrupting other vessel activities.
This delivery marks the first in a series of bio-LNG supplies to MOL, with the fuel certified under the International Sustainability & Carbon Certification (ISCC-EU) mass balance approach. Produced from waste and residue, the bio-LNG supplied by Titan offers up to 100% greenhouse gas (GHG) emission reductions compared to traditional marine diesel on a well-to-wake basis. The seamless blending capability of LNG, bio-LNG, and future renewable e-methane allows for easy integration into existing LNG bunkering infrastructure with minimal modifications.
Industry Leaders Highlight the Importance of Bio-LNG in Shipping Decarbonization
Titan’s senior management emphasized the role of bio-LNG in supporting the maritime industry’s decarbonization efforts.
Nicolas Ganas, Senior Trader and Business Development Manager at Titan, stated:
“We applaud MOL’s commitment to LNG and bio-LNG as marine fuels, reinforcing the shift towards cleaner shipping. This collaboration strengthens our partnership in the region, and we look forward to reliably supplying their vessels with lower-carbon fuel solutions.”
Caspar Gooren, Commercial Director of Renewable Fuels at Titan, added:
“This bunkering highlights the growing role of bio-LNG in decarbonizing international shipping today. With bio-LNG availability expanding, its deep decarbonization potential, and increasing commercial viability, the LNG pathway offers practical solutions for shipowners and operators. Moreover, with a global maritime leader like MOL putting its commercial weight behind bio-LNG, this is an exciting time for the clean fuels transition.”
MOL’s Commitment to Clean Alternative Fuels
MOL continues to explore and implement clean energy solutions in its operations, including bio-LNG, synthetic LNG, ammonia, and hydrogen fuels.
Yoshikazu Urushitani, General Manager of MOL’s Marine Fuel GX Division, stated:
“We are exploring the use of ammonia and hydrogen fuels as part of our strategy to adopt clean alternative fuels, while moving to expand the use of LNG-fueled vessels and more quickly achieve a low-carbon society. We will also be early adopters of bio-LNG and synthetic LNG. Partnering with Titan, we will start using bio-LNG to lead the shipping industry in the transition to clean alternative fuels. We remain committed to adopting clean fuels to reach net zero GHG emissions by 2050.”
The Growing LNG Pathway in Shipping
The adoption of LNG and bio-LNG continues to gain traction in the global shipping industry. Currently, MOL operates five LNG-fueled vehicle carriers, with six additional vessels set for delivery by mid-2025. The broader car carrier sector has embraced LNG dual-fuel propulsion, with 62 LNG-capable vehicle carriers currently in operation and another 146 on order. Notably, approximately 90% of all vehicle carrier orders now include LNG dual-fuel capability, reinforcing the industry’s commitment to reducing emissions and transitioning to cleaner fuels.
About Mitsui O.S.K. Lines, Ltd. (MOL)
Mitsui O.S.K. Lines, Ltd. (MOL) is a global leader in shipping, operating over 800 vessels across various sectors, including bulk carriers, liquefied natural gas carriers, Ro-Ro car carriers, and oil tankers. In addition to traditional shipping, MOL is actively engaged in social infrastructure businesses such as terminal and logistics services, offshore wind power, and real estate. With over 140 years of maritime expertise, MOL is committed to pioneering sustainable shipping solutions and advancing global trade responsibly.
About Titan Clean Fuels
Titan Clean Fuels is a leading independent supplier of low-emission, zero-emission, and net-zero fuels for the shipping sector. Headquartered in Amsterdam, Titan provides LNG, liquefied biomethane (LBM), and hydrogen-derived e-methane to support maritime decarbonization. With over a decade of experience in the clean fuels market, Titan continues to drive sustainable solutions for the shipping industry.
Source Titan Clean Fuels