Port of Nanaimo and Seaspan Energy Expand LNG Bunkering Operations Amid Shift to Cleaner Marine Fuels
The Port of Nanaimo and Seaspan Marine are responding to an increase in ships switching to liquefied natural gas (LNG) as a primary fuel. Seaspan Marine has launched Seaspan Energy Ltd. to provide LNG bunkering services, operating three ships for ship-to-ship refueling in Nanaimo, Vancouver, and Long Beach, California.
The Port of Nanaimo has started providing LNG shore-to-ship and ship-to-ship bunkering services, enhancing its maritime operations. The hybrid car carrier Lake St. Anne, which uses dual fuel, was bunkered in June, marking a significant shift in maritime fuel use.
Vancouver became the first western North American port to conduct ship-to-ship LNG bunkering. The operations at Nanaimo are expected to increase port revenues due to the demand for additional services like water and provisions. LNG is seen as a cleaner and safer alternative, aligning with Canada’s net-zero emissions goals.
