KOGAS signals intent to improve LNG bunkering capacity

South Korean public natural gas company Korea Gas Corporation (KOGAS) Thursday announced plans to improve its liquefied natural gas (LNG) bunkering capacity, according to the Korea times.

It intends to request the Korean government to amend regulations to allow the use of LNG as a marine fuel by the end of 2019, and plans to build a portfolio with global LNG bunkering firms such as Shell and Mitsui.

To date, South Korea has two LNG-propelled ships in operation; POSCO and Korea South-East Power Company have plans to introduce more LNG-powered ships. 

KOGAS is currently bunkering LNG at its Pyeongtaek and Tongyeong terminals by using tank trucks, and plans to finish construction of a LNG bunkering vessel by the end of 2019.

“Amid enhanced regulations of fossil fuels, the world is looking at fierce competition to explore sustainable energy sources and relevant technologies,” a KOGAS official said.

“Through LNG bunkering, KOGAS will pre-emptively respond to the rapidly changing environmental issues.”

KOGAS in early July signed a "Business Agreement for Establishment and Activation of the Busan Port LNG Bunkering System" at the headquarters of BPC.

The Korean Ministry of Oceans and Fisheries  in May introduced plans to revitalise the country’s LNG related shipbuilding industry.

Related: KOGAS and Busan Port enter LNG bunkering study
Related: KOGAS supports push for LNG bunkering
Related: South Korea to ‘revitalise’ LNG-fuelled shipbuilding sector

Photo credit: KOGAS
Published: 13 July, 2018