The Advancement of Sustainable Bunkering: Pioneering Project of Hybrid LNG Vessel by RMK Marine
The future of sustainable bunkering in Northern Europe is taking giant leaps with the innovative project of the hybrid LNG vessel known as Celsius. This ambitious development, carried out by the collaboration between the Swedish shipping company Sirius Shipping and the Nordic energy expert Gasum Group, is scheduled for delivery in the summer of 2027. The recent steel cutting at RMK Marine marks a significant milestone in the expansion of low-emission maritime infrastructures. The initiative not only represents progress in reducing the environmental impact of maritime operations but also offers new job opportunities in the industry. Maritime professionals are invited to explore these prospects and consider being part of this revolutionary project. This article delves into the unique features of the Celsius vessel, as well as the importance of this project for the sector as a whole. Additionally, we assess the role of the companies involved and their contribution to maritime sustainability.
Specialized Design for “Cooling” Services
- The Celsius vessel is much more than a simple LNG supply tank. Its design includes a 27.7 MW Gas Combustion Unit (GCU), a unique addition that allows specialized services such as tank cooling and gasification.
- This type of service is crucial for LNG vessels resuming operations after dry-docking or requiring precise temperature regulation of their tanks.
- Unlike traditional supply vessels, which focus almost exclusively on fuel transfer, Celsius functions as a mobile service center.
- This ensures the elimination of methane leaks during these technical operations, thereby enhancing environmental safety on every mission.
The ability of Celsius to offer these advanced functions makes the vessel an essential tool for environmental management in maritime transport, reaffirming its relevance for operators interested in reducing their carbon footprint.
Key Technical Specifications of the Celsius Vessel
- With a capacity of 7,800 m³, the Celsius vessel is equipped to transport both LNG and Bio-LNG, expanding its operational possibilities and target market.
- Measuring 112.9 meters in length and 19.0 meters in beam, its advanced hybrid propulsion system uses batteries to reduce demand peaks and provides a safety backup.
- It also has an Ice Class 1A rating, optimized for the harsh conditions of Nordic waters.
- The Celsius stands out for its high-efficiency design, presenting an estimated Energy Efficiency Design Index (EEDI) 51% below the requirements of Phase III of 2025.
This not only complies with the strictest regulations but also sets a standard for future developments in the industry.
Leadership Perspectives: Safety, Innovation, and Sustainability
During the steel cutting ceremony, Jonas Backman, CEO of Sirius Shipping, highlighted the historic relationship with the Tuzla-based RMK Marine shipyard, emphasizing the unwavering priority of safety in every operation. Dr. Utku Alanç, CEO of RMK Marine, underscored the shipyard’s commitment to energy transition, stating that the Celsius project sets a new standard in sustainable maritime solutions that protect our oceans. These statements reflect a deep commitment not only to technological innovation but also to environmental responsibility, paving the way for future projects in transitioning to cleaner and more efficient maritime transport.
RMK Marine: Pioneers of Turkish Shipbuilding
Located in Tuzla, Istanbul, RMK Marine is a prominent Turkish shipyard with a track record of innovative maritime solutions. As part of Turkey’s largest private group, the Koç Group, it has established itself as a key player in providing high-tech naval platforms and award-winning superyachts. The shipyard is a pioneer in alternative energy solutions, having recently developed hybrid-electric vessels and dual propulsion ships, reflecting its focus on sustainability and energy efficiency. Its extensive complex, spanning over 95,000 m², allows for the construction of vessels up to 28,000 DWT and demonstrates a firm commitment to safety and environmental sensitivity, essential requirements in the LNG bunkering sector.
Gasum: Leading the Nordic Energy Transition
Gasum, a Finnish state-owned company, leads the transformation towards cleaner fuel solutions in the Nordic countries. As the region’s largest producer of biogas, it offers a comprehensive value chain covering industrial, maritime, and road transport sectors. With a bold goal of introducing 7 TWh of renewable gas to the market annually by 2027, Gasum aims to achieve a cumulative reduction of 1.8 million tons of CO₂ for its customers, positioning itself as a leader in the circular economy. Gasum also operates a vast network of LNG/LBG terminals in Finland, Sweden, and Norway, integrating Bio-LNG into its supply to enable shipowners to comply with stringent regulations like FuelEU Maritime, reducing emissions over the lifecycle by up to 90%.
Sirius Shipping: A Legacy of Maritime Excellence
Founded by the Backman family in Donsö, Sirius Shipping is established as a leading company in tanker operations in Northern Europe. Its focus on safety along with close collaboration between the crew at sea and onshore has forged its reputation in transporting petroleum products, biofuels, chemicals, and LNG. It currently operates a versatile fleet of 11 product/chemical tankers and 2 LNG tankers, with another 3 under commercial management. Sirius is implementing a fleet renewal strategy with 7 new builds in progress, including a series of chemical tankers with hybrid systems and shore power capabilities. The “Sirius Standard” ensures that each vessel is designed with
