Natural Gas Term of the Week: Marine Fuel

What it Means:Refers to the heavy oil used to power large oceangoing vessels such as ferries and freight tankers; also referred to as bunker fuel.

See it in Action:What does marine fuel have to do with natural gas? Plenty!

As shippers look for more environmentally friendly and cost-effective alternatives to bunker fuel they are increasingly turning their attention to natural gas in both its compressed and liquefied forms. Making the switch results in significant reductions in greenhouse gas (20-30%) and sulfur oxide (90%+) while allowing shippers to reap the rewards of historically low current natural gas prices.

The Washington State Ferry System received publicity recently for their interest in switching to Liquefied Natural Gas to fuel their fleet and there could be more on the way. A number of shipping companies on the West Coast are also exploring conversions to natural gas. Keep an eye out for more developments!

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Author: Ben
Published: July 16, 2012
Last Updated: July 16, 2012