NYK signs charter deal with Germany's EnBW for 4 LNGCs
On May 16, Japanese shipping company NYK announced that it has signed a long-term charter contract for four newbuilding LNG carriers with German utility EnBW.
The vessels will be constructed by HD Hyundai Heavy Industries Co. in South Korea and are expected to be completed sequentially from 2027. Each ship will feature a membrane-type cargo tank with a capacity of 174,000 m3.
The main engine of these LNG carriers will be equipped with a dual-fuel, low-speed, two-stroke marine engine, which offers excellent fuel consumption efficiency. NYK emphasizes that this charter contract is significant not only in terms of business but also in promoting environmental, social, and governance management, which is a priority for the company.
By ensuring the reliable transportation of LNG to EnBW, NYK aims to establish a strong partnership and contribute to the global energy transition, the company said.
EnBW in December said it will import LNG via Hanseatic Energy Hub’s (HEH) proposed Stade LNG import terminal. The company has booked long-term capacities at the terminal.
EnBW had in March last year entered into a preliminary purchase agreement with HEH to buy regasified LNG. The terminal would offer 12bn m3/yr in regasification capacity at its location on the Elbe River, one of central Europe's key waterways. Company officials believe Stade LNG could start receiving gas imports from 2026.
Germany is planning to develop LNG import infrastructure as it aims to reduce dependence on Russian gas in light of the Ukraine conflict.