Interest in ordering new ships that can run on alternative fuels is high - and shipping companies are focusing particularly on LNG and menthanol-powered ships, according to classification society DNV in a new report on alternative fuels.

So far this year, 268 new orders for alternative fuel ships have been placed, including 112 LNG ships and 152 vessels that will run on methanol.

”While November’s performance may not have matched the volume of previous months, the overall enthusiasm and promising trajectory remain for both LNG and methanol. The same goes for ammonia,” says Martin Wold, principal consultant in DNV’s Maritime Advisory business.

June and July were the months with the most orders for LNG-powered vessels, with 47 vessels ordered, while 48 new methanol-powered vessels were booked. 

According to the latest figures from DNV, eight new ships able to run on green fuels were ordered in November, of which four will be LNG-powered and four will be methanol-powered. 

“…In general, the pipeline for both announced and unannounced projects remains strong, indicating that the pace will pick up again. However, it’s worth noting that the momentum we see in the tanker and bulk segments continues to experience a more gradual acceleration.”