Gazprom considers LNG for bunker fuel

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MOSCOW, Sept. 24 (UPI) -- Russian energy company Gazprom signed a deal with ports operator Summa Group to consider the use of liquefied natural gas for fuel aboard ships.

Gazprom Deputy Chairman Alexander Medvedev met with Summa Group President Alexander Vinokurov in Moscow to discuss LNG utilization as a bunker fuel.

Vinokurov said the deal would have long-term effects on the environment, expressing confidence that LNG would soon become the standard for maritime transport.

"LNG is the only fuel that meets the requirements for limitation of emissions by ship engines without the need to install expensive filters and it is favorably priced compared to low-sulfur petrochemicals," said Medvedev in a statement. "The technologies for vessels, ship engines and storage facilities for the vessels running on LNG are available and tested."

Both sides expressed support for joint collaboration in the North and Baltic Seas. Apart from supplies, both sides said they'd consider LNG storage facilities for the region. Later considerations would be given for the Black Sea, Mediterranean Sea and parts of the Pacific Ocean.