Could LNG as fuel choice contribute to the revival of the Greek shipbuilding sector? How could the Greek shipyards be “LNG ready”?
These questions, as well as the present and the future of the shipbuilding industry within the LNG era, were the focus of discussion organised by Piraeus Port Authority (PPA) within the framework of the European co-funded project Poseidon Med II.
Speakers highlighted the scope and activities of Poseidon Med II, as well as the under-development designs of vessel retrofits and new buildings within Poseidon Med II.
The establishment of Revithoussa terminal as LNG hub for the regional supply chain and the Europa Ship Plan, an initiative of the Hellenic Shortsea Shipowners Association, introducing a sustainable financing strategy for the renewal of the Short Sea Shipping fleet, were also presented. Specific emphasis was given to the Poseidon Med II shipyards’ assessment regarding their “readiness” for LNG as fuel, as well as the role of the professional chambers.
“The adoption of LNG as marine fuel will create fertile ground for sustainable development of the Greek shipbuilding sector and employment opportunities, which are vital for Greece,” said Dimitrios Spyrou, Consultant in PPA’s Strategic Planning and Marketing Department.
“Piraeus Port Authority’s new floating dock with carrying capacity 80,000 tons and the four existing extensively repaired docks will definitely contribute to this end”.
The Poseidon Med II project aims to bring about the wide adoption of LNG as a safe, environmentally efficient and viable alternative fuel for shipping and help the East Mediterranean marine transportation propel towards a low-carbon future. The project, which is co-funded by the EU, involves three countries Greece, Italy and Cyprus, six ports (Piraeus, Patras, Limassol, Venice, Heraklion, Igoumenitsa), as well as the Revithoussa LNG terminal. The project brings together top experts from the marine, energy and financial sectors to design an integrated LNG value chain and establish a well-functioning and sustainable LNG market.
