South Korea’s Busan Port Authority (BPA) said it has developed what it says is the world’s first LNG-powered hybrid straddle carrier.
BPA claims the new straddle carrier can reduce particulate matter (PM) and nitrogen oxide (NOx) emissions by about 99 percent compared to conventional diesel-powered straddle carriers.
The authority says it has started the project to develop two LNG-powered hybrid straddle carriers, or freight-carrying vehicles, in October last year as it looks to slash emissions in the country’s largest port.
It expects the new straddle carriers to have “a big role in the creation of an eco-friendly Busan Port.”
BPA added it would work with terminal operators to encourage the adoption of these straddle carriers.
This is not the first LNG fuel move for BPA. The authority has last year joined forces with South Korea’s Kogas and three other compatriot firms to form an LNG bunkering joint venture.
The main goals of the venture include promoting LNG bunkering business across the country and responding to stricter regulations on shipping emissions.
Through the JV, Kogas plans to supply 1.36 million tons of LNG for ships by 2030.
