Amsterdam ESI discount doubled for LNG use

Port dues discounts are already given to vessels listed in the Environmental Ship Index (ESI) that have attained an ESI score of 20 points or higher, but from 1 August the port is offering the additional discount to further encourage LNG use amongst vessel operators.

“LNG emits significantly smaller quantities of particulate matter than other fuels, as well as producing less carbon dioxide,” said the port. “Port of Amsterdam regards LNG as a vital transitional fuel which currently serves as the best alternative for the shipping industry.”

It added that it expects the introduction of the discount to “help to advance our mission of encouraging the 50,000 seagoing vessels, cruise ships and barges that call on the Port annually to operate as rapidly and efficiently as possible, using the least amount of resources.”

The port also aims to have a bunker pontoon for LNG in place at the port by the end of the year.

Last month, industry coalition SEA\LNG reiterated how critical continuing investment in LNG as a marine fuel is to meeting both air quality and greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions targets.

Its statement followed a report by the UMAS Consultancy which found that LNG will only deliver a maximum 6% reduction in ship greenhouse gas emissions by 2050.