MOL Unveils Eco-Friendly VLCC Energia Viking
Mitsui O.S.K. Lines, Ltd. has officially launched its latest very large crude carrier (VLCC), the Energia Viking, during a naming ceremony held on July 29. The event took place at Dalian COSCO KHI Ship Engineering Co., Ltd. and was attended by key figures from both MOL and Equinor ASA, the Norwegian energy giant that will charter the vessel. This marks a significant milestone as the Energia Viking is the first LNG dual-fuel VLCC delivered by the MOL Group.
Innovative Features and Environmental Commitment
The Energia Viking is designed with advanced technology, featuring an LNG fuel tank with a capacity exceeding 10,000 cubic meters. This allows for long-distance transportation and enhances operational flexibility. In a notable addition for crew welfare, the vessel includes a unique space called “IKOI,” which serves as a relaxing area separate from living and working spaces. This is the first time such a feature has been introduced on a VLCC operated by MOL.
NYK Concludes Contract for Construction and Charter of Dual-fuel Methanol VLCC
MOL is committed to environmental sustainability, as evidenced by its “MOL Group Environmental Vision 2.2,” which aims for net-zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2050. The use of LNG fuel is a crucial part of this strategy, reducing GHG emissions by approximately 25% to 30% compared to traditional fuel oils. To further its goals in the LNG shipping sector, MOL plans to deploy 90 LNG/methanol-fueled vessels by 2030. Currently, around 40 LNG-fueled vessels, including the Energia Viking, are in development, with six VLCCs scheduled for delivery starting in 2025. Three of these, including the Energia Viking, will operate under a charter agreement with Equinor, reinforcing the partnership’s commitment to reducing the environmental impact of VLCC operations.
