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The Greek port of Patras could soon join the growing list of locations around the world offering liquefied natural gas (LNG) bunkering.

Poseidon Med II workshop held in Patras

A workshop focusing on the technical aspects of LNG bunkering at the port of Patras in Greece was held between June 28th and 29th, which was designed to help clear up some of the technical concerns around beginning an LNG project at the port.

Focus points on the workshop included bunkering operations, necessary technology, infrastructure for LNG, safe handling and provisions, and the regulatory framework needed for the project to succeed. Here, the involved parties got to discuss a feasibility plan for implementing an LNG bunkering operation at the port, as well as where facilities could be installed and how to do it. Possible small-scale LNG installation locations were proposed by the Director of Holding and Development Department, Stavros Antypas.

Another task carried out during the workshop was the evaluation of the costs associated with certain shipping routes using LNG bunkers. The fuel calculation review was carried for two different types of ro-pax cargo vessels that operate on the Bari and Ancona routes.

Next steps needed towards LNG bunkering

According to Thanos Koliopulos, LR Global Special Projects Manager, "the project has now entered a new level of maturity able to back-up general philosophy requirements with a sound numerical approach, while facilitating all participating parties' consent".

George Polychroniou, Project Manager of Poseidon Med II, said LNG bunkering at Patras is a key milestone in the development of LNG as a fuel source in the Eastern Mediterranean region, especially Greece. Original bunkering facilities could be expanded to accommodate the needs of the local and regional areas as well for energy supply.

In addition, Polychroniou pointed out that the LNG project is not only for bunkering, but also to provide some access to the natural gas as a resource for home energy.

Goals of the Poseidon Med II project

The aim of Poseidon Med II is to bring practical solutions for the adoption of LNG as an environmentally friendly, safe, and viable alternative bunker fuel for the shipping industry. It is partially funded by the European Union and operates in Greece, Italy, and Cyprus.