The first delivery of liquefied natural gas (LBG) took place on 1 April - from a plant in Turku to Helsinki where it was used to bunker the gas-run patrol vessel Turva.

The second shipment will see LBG delivered from Gasum's facility in the Norwegian Risavika to Finland's capital via the company's terminal in the Port of Pori.

"The purpose of these deliveries is to test logistics and practicalities on board as well as demonstrate biogas as a renewable energy source in maritime transport," Gasum said in a press release.

Commander Marko Aheristo, Head of Ship Technical Unit, the Finnish Border Guard, commented, "We are happy to be forerunners in environmentally friendly shipping practices. Through these test deliveries we will expect to gain more experience on using biogas and to support further our efforts to reach the carbon neutrality goals Finland has set for 2035."

To this Jacob Granqvist, Vice President Maritime, Gasum, added, "Gasum has supported the Finnish Border Guard's LNG-fuelled offshore patrol vessel Turva since the beginning of her operations, and now we are very happy to continue this journey with LBG-deliveries. Using biogas alongside with LNG in marine transport is a new step forward in decarbonizing the shipping industry and we are looking forward to completing more successful trials with biogas in the near future."

Photo: Gasum