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Equinor's Latest LNG Tanker: ENERGIA VIKING

On July 29, MOL ENERGIA PTE. LTD., a subsidiary of Mitsui O.S.K. Lines, Ltd. (MOL), hosted a significant naming ceremony for the new vessel 'ENERGIA VIKING.' This large new crude oil tanker (Very Large Crude Carrier, VLCC) was commissioned for Equinor ASA, a leading energy firm based in Stavanger, Norway. The event occurred at the Dalian COSCO KHI Ship Engineering Company Ltd. (DACKS) in China, bringing together key executives from both companies and industry stakeholders.

During the ceremony, Anne Mai Hatlem, Senior Vice President of Equinor, and Takeshi Hashimoto, President of MOL, along with Miki Ogura, Managing Director at MOL ENERGIA, celebrated the christening of this innovative vessel. Named 'ENERGIA VIKING,' this ship represents a significant milestone as it's the first LNG dual-fuel VLCC completed by the MOL Group and will soon enter service under a charter agreement with Equinor.

One of the standout features of ENERGIA VIKING is its capability to transport an impressive amount of LNG fuel, exceeding 10,000 cubic meters, which enables it to undertake long-distance delivery while offering flexible transportation solutions. To enhance crew welfare, the vessel includes a designated space named 'IKOI,' which serves as a relaxation area distinct from living quarters and workspaces—a first for MOL in VLCCs. This initiative shows the company's commitment to improving crew comfort while at sea.

Mitsui O.S.K. Lines' commitment extends beyond operational efficiency. The company has established the 'MOL Group Environmental Vision 2.2,' which aims for net-zero emissions by 2050. The use of LNG as fuel allows for a remarkable 25-30% reduction in greenhouse gas emissions compared to traditional fuel oils. In an effort to contribute actively to the sustainable decarbonization of the LNG shipping industry, MOL plans to deploy 90 LNG/methanol-fueled vessels by 2030. Currently, they are coordinating around 40 LNG-fueled vessels, with six VLCCs, including ENERGIA VIKING, slated for delivery by 2025 under charter agreements with Equinor.

Vessel Specifications

• - Deadweight Tonnage: Approximately 309,000 tons
• - Length: About 339.5 meters
• - Width: Approximately 60.0 meters
• - Expected Completion: End of 2025
• - LNG Tank Capacity: 5,100 m3 x 2 units

Through its partnership with Equinor, MOL aims to lead the way in promoting LNG fuel technology and making significant strides in reducing environmental impacts associated with maritime operations. As the global shipping industry shifts towards more sustainable practices, innovations like ENERGIA VIKING will play a crucial role in navigating the path toward a greener future.