Foto: Jerry Lampen
In a noteworthy shift, maritime fuel consumption in Rotterdam witnessed a substantial decline last year, dropping from 10.6 million tons in 2022 to 9.9 million tons in 2023. This 6.7% decrease in demand for bunker fuels like fuel oil and gas oil is a significant development for one of Europe’s key maritime hubs.
The most striking change was the surge in LNG (liquefied natural gas) bunkering, soaring from 406,599 m3 to 619,243 m3. This spike is attributed to the price dynamics of LNG. On the other hand, demand for biofuel-blended bunkers decreased from 790,851 tons to 751,638 tons in 2023. Interestingly, the Laura Maersk made history by bunkering biomethanol for the first time.
The decrease in bunkering activities can be attributed to two main factors. Firstly, Rotterdam experienced a notable reduction in the arrival of seafaring vessels. Secondly, the allure of bunker oil prices in Singapore for several months played a pivotal role in diverting maritime traffic.
Notably, the Laura Maersk’s historic bunkering of green methanol in Rotterdam serves as a beacon of the maritime industry’s shift towards sustainable practices. This move aligns with the industry’s efforts to embrace alternative and eco-friendly fuels.
Looking ahead, the Rotterdam Port Authority, in collaboration with the Antwerp-Bruges Port Authority, made a significant announcement. By early 2026, all bunker ships operating in the ARA (Amsterdam-Rotterdam-Antwerp) region must integrate officially approved bunker measurement systems. This initiative aims to enhance transparency, efficiency, and reliability in the ARA bunker market.
This strategic move by the port authorities underscores their commitment to navigating towards a more sustainable and technologically advanced future for maritime operations. As the maritime landscape evolves, Rotterdam continues to play a pivotal role, adapting to changes while spearheading innovations.
Source:Port of Rotterdam
