LNGfueled

LNG-fueled refers to propulsion systems and power units that use liquefied natural gas (LNG) as a primary or alternative fuel. LNG is natural gas cooled to about minus 162 degrees Celsius, stored in cryogenic tanks, and used in engines designed to burn gas instead of liquid fuels. LNG-fueled power can be supplied in dual-fuel configurations that can operate on LNG or conventional marine fuels, or in dedicated LNG engines designed to run primarily on LNG.

In maritime applications, LNG-fueled propulsion has been adopted to meet tightening emissions standards. LNG-powered ships can reduce sulfur oxide and particulate emissions significantly, and they typically achieve lower nitrogen oxide and carbon dioxide emissions compared with traditional marine fuels, depending on engine technology and operating conditions. However, methane slip—the release of unburned methane during operation—remains a concern for overall climate impact. LNG-fueled vessels also require specialized bunkering infrastructure and cryogenic fuel storage on board.

Technology and operation involve specialized LNG tanks, fuel-supply systems, and controls for cryogenic handling. Boil-off gas, produced as LNG warms, is managed through reliquefaction or burn-off systems to minimize venting. Dual-fuel engines can switch between LNG and conventional fuels, offering flexibility for ports without LNG facilities and during fuel price fluctuations.

Regulatory and market context includes tightened sulfur emissions controls under MARPOL and global greenhouse gas reduction objectives. LNG is seen as a stepping stone toward lower-emission propulsion in shipping, with ongoing research into reducing methane slip, improving supply chains, and integrating LNG with other low-carbon alternatives in the future. LNG-fueled technology is also applied in heavy road vehicles and stationary power, where cleaner combustion and fuel flexibility are valued.