Shell has contracted STX Offshore & Shipbuilding to build a new LNG bunkering vessel to operate from the Port of Rotterdam.

The vessel will be based at Rotterdam, and load at the new LNG breakbulk terminal and jetty which is to be constructed by the Gas Access to Europe (GATE) terminal. The ship will serve vessels in the North Sea with its 6,500 cu m of LNG capacity.

“We worked closely with customers on the specifications of this exciting new bunker vessel and will use cutting-edge technology,” said Grahaeme Henderson, vp of Shell Shipping & Maritime. “I am delighted to be working with STX on this project and Shell is proud to be leading in the development of LNG fuel in shipping.”

Demand for the fuel is expected to increase dramatically following the introduction of the 0.1% sulphur cap in the North European ECA in January 2015, which prompted shell to invest in capacity at the new Rotterdam LNG terminal earlier this year.

“This specialised LNG bunker vessel is good news,” said Maarten Wetselaar, Shell’s executive vp, Integrated Gas. “Potential customers need to know that their LNG fuel will be delivered reliably and safely. Shell’s investment in this vessel, as well as commitment to buy capacity at the GATE terminal, underlines our confidence in LNG becoming a bigger part of the fuel mix.”