MOL & ONGC Sign Dual-Fuel Ethane Carrier Deal | Mariner News
In a significant move for global energy transport, Japan’s Mitsui O.S.K. Lines (MOL) and India’s Oil and Natural Gas Corporation (ONGC) have solidified a strategic MOL ONGC charter deal. This landmark agreement involves two state-of-the-art dual-fuel ethane carriers, set to revolutionize the shipping of liquefied ethane. Signed through joint ventures, this 15-year charter highlights a robust commitment to expanding India’s energy infrastructure and embracing more sustainable maritime solutions.
Advanced Ethane Carriers for India’s Energy Needs
These very large ethane carriers (VLECs), each boasting a substantial cargo capacity of 100,000 cubic meters, represent the forefront of shipping technology. Crucially, they will feature dual-fuel main engines, enabling them to operate efficiently on ethane, including cargo boil-off gas. This innovative propulsion system is expected to significantly improve fuel efficiency and drastically reduce greenhouse gas emissions compared to conventional vessels, marking a major step towards cleaner marine operations.
A Leap Towards Sustainable Maritime Transport
Scheduled for construction at Samsung Heavy Industries’ Geoje shipyard in South Korea, with deliveries anticipated from late 2028, these vessels will play a vital role in transporting liquefied ethane from the United States to India. This long-term commitment underpins a growing trend towards adopting environmentally friendly shipping practices. The utilization of ethane as a marine fuel aligns perfectly with global efforts to decarbonize the shipping industry, offering a greener alternative for vital energy supply chains. This collaboration underscores the evolving landscape of global energy and the critical role of sustainable logistics.
