In 2023, the Port of Barcelona conducted 199 LNG bunkering operations, supplying a total of 143,000 m³, doubling the previous year’s figures.
The surge was attributed to normalized prices post the 2022 Ukraine conflict and the introduction of the Haugesund Knutsen bunkering barge. LNG bunkering operations tripled, elevating the Spanish port’s share of LNG bunkered to ships from 0.2% in 2021 to 5.8% in 2023. Barcelona is now a leading European port in LNG usage.
Furthermore, the commissioning of the Haugesund Knutsen and LNG price normalization facilitated increased services, particularly for Carnival cruise ships, leading to a significant rise in operational flexibility and cost reduction.
The Energy Transition Plan, initiatives promoting cleaner fuels, and industry changes bolster Barcelona’s position. The Baleà ria shipping company resumed LNG supply in 2023, performing 133 operations, while the first LNG bunkering on a cargo ship occurred. Of the 8,783 port calls, 7% were LNG-powered vessels, marking a 10% reduction in NOX emissions.
The commitment of shipping companies to LNG as a transitional fuel aligns with the rise in bunkering services. Several LNG bunkering companies are expressing interest in setting up at the Port due to its diversification, access to LNG through the Enagas regasification plant, and policy of fee discounts for sustainable vessels since 2015, encouraging further growth in LNG bunkering operations and vessel types in the short term.
In addition, the Port of Barcelona is committed to transitioning to zero-emission fuels as outlined in its Energy Transition Plan. Aligned with its Fourth Strategic Plan, the port aims to cut greenhouse gas emissions by half by 2030 and achieve carbon neutrality by 2050.
The Energy Transition Plan focuses on several initiatives, including the Nexigen project, connecting ships to the electricity grid while berthed, utilizing solar panels for maximum energy self-sufficiency, and promoting the adoption of cleaner fuels. LNG is identified as an initial step towards zero-emission options like bioLNG, methanol, ammonia, hydrogen, or biofuels for both maritime and land transport at the port.
In collaboration with the Barcelona Port Authority and shipping companies, the plan reserves port spaces for producing green fuels and renewable energies. A short-term goal is to construct a green methanol production plant, prioritizing its use as a zero-emissions fuel for ships. Additionally, a feasibility study is ongoing for a biomethane production plant within the port facilities, aiming to replace LNG with this carbon-neutral fuel for ship propulsion.
