Fjord Line utilizes liquefied natural gas for its vessels

Norwegian ferry operator Fjord Line utilizes liquefied natural gas (LNG) as fuel for its vessels, resulting in significant environmental benefits.

The company's MS Stavangerfjord, the world's first and largest cruise ferry with exclusively LNG engines, began operations in 2013, followed by her sister ship MS Bergensfjord in 2014. Morten Larsen, Project Director at Fjord Line, stated that the company has no regrets about its strategic choice of clean energy, noting that LNG also provides discounts in some ports.

LNG use eliminates sulfur and particulate emissions, reduces nitrogen oxide emissions by 92 percent, and lowers carbon dioxide emissions by approximately one-fifth compared to traditional heavy fuel oil. The onboard working environment has also improved, with an 80 percent reduction in cleaning chemical usage.

Fjord Line's ferries consume around 32,000 tons of LNG annually and are bunkered at Gasum's facility in Risavika, Norway. The company is also exploring liquefied biogas (LBG) as a pathway towards fully renewable energy, as LBG is compatible with existing LNG engines.

Larsen highlighted that LNG remains a competitive fuel option despite fluctuations in oil prices. He urged decision-makers to continue supporting the development of LNG infrastructure to enhance competitiveness and flexibility.