Monjasa has marked a significant step in its LNG bunkering operations with the first ship-to-ship (STS) operation between its newly acquired LNG bunker vessel (LBV) Green Zeebrugge and floating storage unit (FSU) Shandong Juniper. The operation took place in the United Arab Emirates, reinforcing the company’s growing role in LNG supply within the region.
The LBV Green Zeebrugge, measuring 108 meters with a capacity of 5,000 cubic meters, and the FSU Shandong Juniper, at 290 meters with a storage capacity of 130,000 cubic meters, have been deployed to meet the increasing demand for LNG bunkering. The vessels store LNG at an ultra-low temperature of -162 degrees Celsius, allowing efficient and secure transfers to client vessels.
Casper Borgen, Trading Director for the Middle East & Africa at Monjasa, highlighted the company’s strategic expansion following its first successful cruise line LNG supply operation in Dubai. “Following our first successful cruise line supplies in Dubai, the next step is to cover all UAE ports, where we see a demand for LNG bunkering,” said Borgen.
The move is part of Monjasa’s broader efforts to bridge the gap between large-scale LNG loading terminals and smaller supply vessels that are essential for efficient ship-to-ship deliveries. LNG terminals are typically designed for larger gas carriers, limiting direct access for many vessels that require bunkering services. With the integration of these two vessels, Monjasa aims to ensure both accessibility and flexibility for shipowners.
In the context of the maritime industry’s regulatory push toward lower emissions, LNG has gained traction as a cleaner fuel alternative. Compared to conventional oil-based fuels, LNG reduces carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions by approximately 20%, making it an attractive option for compliance with international shipping regulations such as the Energy Efficiency Existing Ship Index (EEXI) and the annual Carbon Intensity Indicator (CII).
As LNG bunkering gains momentum globally, Monjasa’s fleet expansion underscores the industry’s shifting priorities toward sustainable fuel alternatives. With increasing regulatory requirements and growing interest in cleaner energy solutions, LNG is set to play a pivotal role in the future of maritime fuel supply. The company’s latest developments in the UAE align with this trend, offering shipowners a viable pathway to meet emissions targets while maintaining operational efficiency.
