Mitsui O.S.K. Lines (MOL), led by President & CEO Takeshi Hashimoto and headquartered in Minato-ku, Tokyo, has been chosen as the preferred ship owner to provide a time-chartered Floating Storage and Regasification Unit (FSRU) for the upcoming LNG import terminal in the Gulf of Gdańsk, Poland.
The project is spearheaded by Polish Gas Transmission System Operator, GAZ-SYSTEM S.A. (Gaz System), marking Poland’s inaugural FSRU and a pivotal addition to the nation’s energy infrastructure for heightened security.
The FSRU is expected to be stationed at a mooring platform approximately 3km off the shore in the Port of Gdańsk area, strategically positioned between the mouths of the Vistula River branches: Śmiała and Martwa. As part of the initiative, offshore and onshore infrastructure will be developed to support the terminal.
“The selection of the LNG Floating Storage and Regasification Unit supplier is an important milestone in the implementation of the FSRU Program which Gaz System has pursued for many months now. In the near future, we will focus on developing the detailed terms of the so-called Time Charter Party. Further, we need to obtain all necessary corporate approvals from Gaz System’s management bodies to sign the agreement with the shipowner,” stated Andrzej Kensbok, vice president of GAZ-SYSTEM Management Board.
Furthermore, the entire project is scheduled for commissioning in 2027/2028. Aligned with MOL Group Vision, which aims to advance various social infrastructure businesses focusing on ocean shipping, the company endeavours to address evolving societal needs, including environmental conservation, through technological and service innovations.
According to a statement, this venture is also in harmony with the “BLUE ACTION 2035” group management plan, emphasizing the expansion of offshore and non-shipping activities, as well as the “MOL Group Environmental Vision 2.2,” advocating for the growth of low-carbon/decarbonized businesses leveraging the collective strengths of the group. By contributing to the sustainable development of society and the preservation of nature, MOL strives to sustain livelihoods and ensure a flourishing future emanating from the vast blue oceans.
“Being selected for this strategically important project for Poland has been a great honour for MOL and we are committed to working closely with Gaz System to deliver Poland’s first FSRU which would not only strengthen the energy security in Poland but in the region in the long-term. This project also aligns with MOL’s Group Vision of realizing a sustainable society through the development of social infrastructure businesses and the provision of lower-emission energy. We are confident that the vast operational and technical experience we have garnered through our 140 years of history in the industry, along with our financial capability, will enhance the project and ensure a seamless, safe and efficient service is provided to Gaz System,” commented Toshinobu Shinoda, senior managing executive officer in charge of Europe and Africa region, Mitsui O.S.K. Lines.
