A NEW bunker tanker to be built for Port of Auckland and subsidiary Seafuels will be capable of supplying biodiesel and methanol, as well as low sulphur fuel and marine diesel oil.
An order has been placed with Turkiye’s Ada Denizcilik ve Tersane Isletmeciligi A.S. in Tuzla for the 88.8-metre IMO Class II chemical tanker, which will cost NZ$50 million and is expected to be named and delivered in 2027. It will replace Seafuels’ 18-yo Awanuia and operate on charter to “a large fuel provider”.
“This tanker is a significant investment in the port’s future and a big milestone in our sustainability journey,” Port of Auckland CEO Roger Gray said.
“We have worked with our shipping line customers to understand their future fuel needs and we’re pleased to be able to offer a practical tool toward lower-carbon intensive shipping.”
The shipping industry is responsible for between 2-3% of all global emissions and the International Maritime Organisation has set ambitious 2050 zero emissions goals. Port of Auckland continues to decarbonise as it works towards its zero emissions 2050 goal, it says. The new bunkering vessel follows the ports’ introduction of Sparky, the world’s first full-sized electric tugboat in 2022.
“Achieving these targets requires a significant transition plan to zero-emission alternatives and Port of Auckland are pleased to be able to support this transition for ships in New Zealand,” Mr Gray said.
Allan D’Souza, Seafuels director, said: “This investment demonstrates the port’s unwavering commitment to innovation, safety, and sustainability, supporting the global transition to cleaner energy while strengthening our commitment to meet the evolving needs of the maritime industry.”