Delphine Estibeiro –
As the maritime industry faces mounting pressure to decarbonise, LNG bunkering is emerging as a practical bridge fuel. At a recent session, I had the privilege of listening to Mr Manoj H Chaudhari, CEO of Unnic LNG Solutions, whose presentation offered a timely and insightful perspective on how liquefied natural gas could reshape shipping’s future.
Manoj underscored LNG’s role as a transitional fuel, balancing operational efficiency with environmental responsibility. He stressed that LNG bunkering is not simply a technical innovation but a strategic enabler for shipowners navigating tightening international regulations, including the IMO’s decarbonisation targets.
A central theme of his presentation was infrastructure readiness. Ports across Asia and Europe are rapidly investing in LNG bunkering facilities, signalling confidence in LNG’s long‑term viability. Manoj highlighted India’s expanding port network as a unique opportunity to position the country as a regional hub, strengthening its role in global shipping corridors.
Safety and operational standards were also in focus. LNG bunkering demands rigorous training, robust risk management, and harmonised international guidelines. Manoj emphasised that collaboration between regulators, shipowners, and technology providers will be critical to ensuring safe and efficient adoption.
From an economic standpoint, LNG offers cost competitiveness compared to conventional fuels, particularly when factoring in carbon levies and emissions trading schemes. Yet, Manoj acknowledged challenges such as upfront capital investment and the need for reliable supply chains.
Importantly, he framed LNG as a bridge to future fuels like hydrogen and ammonia. “LNG is not the final destination,” he noted, “but it is a reliable vessel to carry us toward a cleaner maritime future.”
The presentation resonated strongly with delegates, many of whom see LNG bunkering as a practical pathway to meet sustainability goals without compromising operational efficiency. In an era of rapid change, LNG stands out as a solution that is both technically feasible and strategically aligned with global decarbonisation imperatives.
Marex Media