The European Union will support a series of studies to analyse the potential introduction of liquefied natural gas (LNG) infrastructure in Spain and France, providing approximately €1 million in funding.
The studies were selected for funding under the 2012 TEN-T Multi-Annual Call, and are aimed at determining the feasibility of implementing LNG bunkering facilities in the Port of Roscoff (France) and the Port of Santander (Spain). The studies will take into account the conformity of the infrastructure and equipment with the standards for risk prevention, environmental protection and the eventual constraints, revealed by impact assessments and public inquiries.
LNG is quickly emerging as a more environmentally friendly fuel for the maritime sector, and its use is encouraged by the European Union. The market for LNG for maritime transport in Europe is currently limited, and infrastructure for the small-scale supply of LNG is almost non-existent.
The findings of these studies will be an essential decision making tool for the following:
- The ferry operator, to start the construction and the retrofit of LNG vessels.
- Port authorities in Roscoff and Santander that will be able to plan the design and the implementation of LNG bunkering stations.
- The authorities in charge of the public passenger transport in Cantabria.
- Helping to contribute to the realisation of the "Motorways of the Sea" (TEN-T Priority Project 21) concept.
Adapted from press release by Katie Woodward