Image: KOLB

[Asiatoday, June 13, 2023] Korea Gas Corporation (KOGAS) is leading the way in fuel conversion projects for low-carbon, eco-friendly energy. KOGAS recently announced its proactive pursuit of LNG bunkering operations, responding to the global shift towards sustainable energy sources.

LNG bunkering involves supplying ships with environmentally friendly LNG fuel, which significantly reduces emissions compared to traditional fuels. It can achieve remarkable reductions in sulfur oxide and dust emissions by 100%, carbon dioxide emissions by 25%, and fine dust by 99% compared to conventional ship fuels.

To support the bunkering business, KOGAS possesses the world's largest LNG storage voume of facilities and the only dedicated LNG shipping facility for bunkering ships in Korea, located at the Tongyeong LNG base.

KOGAS established Korea LNG Bunkering Inc. (KOLB) in 2020. KOLB actively employs all three LNG bunkering supply methods, which include ship-to-ship (STS) operations facilitated by Asia's first LNG bunkering vessel, the "SM JEJU LNG 2," truck-to-ship (TTS) utilizing tank lorries, and port-to-ship (PTS) operations leveraging base facilities.

Last month, KOLB unveiled the "BLUE WHALE," the nation's first exclusive LNG bunkering vessel with a capacity of 7,500 cubic meters. The vessel's primary objective is to provide LNG fuel to both LNG-powered ships and ships operated by shipbuilders.​

KOGAS is actively promoting new LNG-based businesses, emphasizing their commitment to eco-friendly energy. The introduction of the "BLUE WHALE" will improve marine air quality and ensure compliance with stringent ship fuel IMO regulations.