TotalEnergies and CMA CGM to Launch LNG Bunkering Logistics
TotalEnergies and CMA CGM Launch LNG Bunker Venture
TotalEnergies and CMA CGM Group have announced a strategic partnership to establish a 50/50 logistics joint venture aimed at developing a liquefied natural gas (LNG) bunker supply solution at the Port of Rotterdam. This collaboration underscores both companies’ commitment to accelerating the energy transition within the maritime industry. The joint venture is set to enhance LNG infrastructure in Europe, providing a sustainable alternative for shipping operations.
Enhancing LNG Infrastructure in Rotterdam
The newly formed joint venture will introduce a 20,000 cubic-meter LNG bunker vessel to Rotterdam by the end of 2028. This vessel will be operated jointly by CMA CGM and TotalEnergies, offering comprehensive logistics services that include reload access at Gate terminal facilities and LNG bunker delivery to various vessels in the Amsterdam-Rotterdam-Antwerp (ARA) region. This initiative will not only serve CMA CGM’s fleet but also cater to other shipping operators in the area.
TotalEnergies will leverage its existing logistics infrastructure in the ARA region, which includes the operational LNG bunker vessel Gas Agility, launched in 2020. By integrating the new bunker vessel with Gas Agility, the joint venture aims to create synergies that will improve delivery flexibility and operational efficiency across the region. This strategic move is expected to significantly bolster the availability of LNG as a cleaner fuel option for maritime transport.
Long-Term Commitment to Sustainable Shipping
To support CMA CGM’s ambitious goal of achieving Net Zero Carbon by 2050, TotalEnergies will provide up to 360,000 tons of LNG annually from 2028 until 2040. This supply will be crucial for CMA CGM’s dual-fuel LNG-powered fleet, which is projected to expand to 123 vessels by 2029.
Patrick Pouyanné, Chairman and CEO of TotalEnergies, expressed pride in collaborating with CMA CGM to develop an LNG bunkering supply chain in one of Europe’s key port hubs. He emphasized that LNG is currently the most viable solution for reducing the environmental impact of maritime transport. Similarly, Rodolphe Saadé, Chairman and CEO of CMA CGM Group, highlighted the significance of this joint venture as a step towards scaling alternative fuels and accelerating the decarbonisation of global trade.
The establishment of this joint venture is contingent upon receiving the necessary regulatory approvals, marking a significant milestone in the partnership between these two leading French companies committed to advancing low-carbon marine solutions.
