MOL takes delivery of LPG dual-fuel VLGC Energia Grandeur from Hyundai Samho

Mitsui O.S.K. Lines (MOL) has taken delivery of a new LPG dual-fuel very large gas carrier (VLGC) from Hyundai Samho Heavy Industries in South Korea, further expanding its alternative-fuel gas carrier fleet.

The vessel, named Energia Grandeur, was delivered off Mokpo Port and forms part of MOL’s ‘BLUE’ series of environmentally oriented newbuildings. The ship was ordered by MOL group company MOL Energia and will operate under a time charter to CSSA Chartering and Shipping Services (CSSA), a subsidiary of TotalEnergies.

According to MOL, Energia Grandeur is a dual-fuel VLGC capable of operating on both liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) and heavy fuel oil. When running on LPG, carbon dioxide emissions are expected to be reduced by around 20%, while sulphur oxides, particulate matter and other pollutants are reduced by approximately 90% compared with heavy fuel oil operation. The vessel is also designed to transport ammonia, in addition to LPG.

“Ammonia, which emits no carbon dioxide during combustion, is expected to see significant growth in demand as a next generation clean energy source,” MOL said.
“In addition, the new vessel is equipped with a shaft generator to enhance operational efficiency, adopting environmentally conscious specifications that enable further greenhouse gas (GHG) reductions compared with conventional LPG dual fuel VLGCs.”

MOL said financing for Energia Grandeur includes the use of a transition-linked loan, aligning the investment with the company’s broader strategy to develop a fleet powered by lower-impact and alternative fuels.

As part of the ‘BLUE’ fleet concept, the vessel features a new hull design combining the corporate colour blue, representing the ocean, with turquoise, reflecting the group’s environmental initiatives. MOL said the visual identity is intended to reflect its corporate mission:
“From the blue oceans, we sustain people’s lives and ensure a prosperous future.” The delivery further extends MOL’s long-standing commercial relationship with TotalEnergies, which spans marine fuel trading as well as long-term charter arrangements for LNG carriers and LNG bunkering vessels.