Articles tagged with "LNG"
World's largest car carrier launched in China, holds 10,800 cars
China has launched the world’s largest car carrier, capable of transporting up to 10,800 vehicles in a single voyage. Developed by Guangzhou Shipyard International Co., Ltd. (GSI), a subsidiary of China State Shipbuilding Corporation, the LNG dual-fuel vessel marks a significant advancement in maritime logistics amid rising global demand for car shipping. Built for South Korea’s HMM, a major shipping operator, the ship features a 14-deck design that allows flexible loading of conventional cars, electric vehicles (EVs), hydrogen-powered vehicles, and heavy-duty trucks. Measuring approximately 755 feet long and 131 feet wide, it surpasses previous Chinese-built carriers and complies with stringent International Maritime Organization Tier III emission standards, reflecting the industry’s shift toward greener propulsion. The launch underscores China’s growing influence in both shipbuilding and automotive exports, with the country exporting over seven million vehicles in 2025 and increasing EV shipments. HMM’s move back into car shipping, in partnership with Hyundai Gl
energymaritimeLNGemissionsshipbuildingelectric-vehiclesclean-propulsionCanada’s LNG Mirage: Why Most Projects Won’t Be Built and Taxpayers Won’t See the Payoff - CleanTechnica
The article from CleanTechnica argues that most proposed Canadian liquefied natural gas (LNG) export projects are unlikely to be built or to deliver the economic returns promised to taxpayers. This is due to a fundamental shift in global energy demand dynamics: LNG markets are currently oversupplied, with over 150 million tons per year of export capacity already under construction worldwide, exceeding plausible demand growth even under conservative scenarios. Rapid expansion of solar power and battery storage, especially in Asia, is displacing gas-fired electricity generation and reducing LNG demand. By the early 2030s, LNG demand in Asia is expected to contract rather than grow, undermining the assumptions underpinning Canadian LNG investments. Additionally, rising financing costs for fossil fuel infrastructure and a shift of capital toward renewables and grid infrastructure make LNG projects riskier and more expensive. LNG remains the costliest and least flexible energy source compared to domestic solar and wind paired with batteries, which provide cheaper and more reliable electricity. Real-world examples such as
energyLNGnatural-gasrenewable-energysolar-powerbattery-storageenergy-infrastructureThe Coming Energy Shakeout: Data Centers, LNG, ESG, and What Breaks in 2026 - CleanTechnica
The article from CleanTechnica discusses the annual energy predictions review by Laurent Segalen, Michael Barnard, and Gerard Reid, focusing on global energy trends and decarbonization milestones. They revisit their six predictions made for 2025, which included expectations about U.S. oil production decline, oil prices hitting $40-$50 per barrel, geopolitical impacts fostering innovation, a downturn for hydrogen in transportation, record installations of solar and EVs, and the end of ESG-labeled financial products. The panelists reflect on the accuracy of these forecasts, noting that oil prices and demand remained higher than expected due to China's strategic reserve buildup, which delayed the anticipated U.S. production decline and kept prices elevated. Michael Barnard admits he was off by several months on his prediction about U.S. oil production and prices, while Gerard Reid acknowledges his oil price forecast was incorrect but expects prices to trend downward toward $40 in 2026. The discussion highlights the complexity of energy geopolitics in 202
energydata-centersLNGdecarbonizationoil-pricessolar-energyelectric-vehiclesWhy Simple Fuels Win at Sea: Assessing LNG SOFCs, Hydrogen, Sails, and CCS Against Practical Needs - CleanTechnica
The article critically examines the practicality of using Bloom Energy’s solid oxide fuel cells (SOFCs) running on LNG for maritime propulsion, alongside other alternatives like hydrogen, sails, and carbon capture and storage (CCS). It emphasizes the unique and demanding operational environment of ships, which require continuous, reliable power with high power density in confined spaces that also accommodate cargo and crew. The maritime industry’s existing propulsion technologies—such as dual-fuel LNG engines, methanol engines, hybrid electric systems, and energy storage—are evolving to meet these needs, while wind assistance remains limited due to operational constraints. Bloom’s SOFCs, despite being marketed as highly efficient electrical generators, face significant challenges for maritime use. These fuel cells operate at high temperatures (~800°C), producing about 325 kW per 15-ton module, which is bulky relative to output and generates substantial heat that complicates thermal management in tight ship engine rooms. Additionally, the modules degrade relatively quickly, with median replacement cycles around five
energymaritime-propulsionsolid-oxide-fuel-cellsLNGhydrogen-fuelclean-energymaritime-technologyPakistan’s LNG Retreat Signals Trouble for Canada’s Export Ambitions - CleanTechnica
The article highlights Pakistan’s recent move to request Qatar to divert or sell 24 contracted LNG cargoes in 2026, signaling a significant shift in global LNG demand expectations. Pakistan had initially committed to long-term LNG contracts anticipating steady power demand growth and the need to supplement declining domestic gas production. However, the country’s rapid addition of approximately 17 GW of solar capacity in 2024 dramatically altered its electricity mix, reducing reliance on gas-fired power generation. This transition, driven by affordability, energy security, and price stability rather than climate policy, has led to decreased LNG usage and financial pressure on long-term contracts. Emerging grid-scale batteries and hydropower further reduce gas plant operating hours, prompting Pakistan to offload LNG cargoes to avoid financial liabilities. This development is not isolated but indicative of a broader regional trend challenging the traditional LNG demand model that assumes continuous growth in Asia. Several South and Southeast Asian countries, including Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, India, and Vietnam, have canceled or paused LNG
energyLNGrenewable-energysolar-powerbattery-storageenergy-transitionnatural-gasHawaii’s LNG Detour: Why A Fossil Bridge Arriving In The 2030s Makes No Sense - CleanTechnica
The article from CleanTechnica discusses Hawaii’s reconsideration of liquefied natural gas (LNG) as a transitional fuel to move away from heavy oil dependence toward a renewable energy future. Hawaii currently relies heavily on oil, especially on Oahu, where most electricity generation comes from residual fuel oil and diesel, resulting in high costs and significant pollution. LNG is seen by some as a cleaner and potentially cheaper alternative that could provide reliable, dispatchable power while the state expands its wind, solar, and battery capacity. Proponents argue LNG could reduce harmful emissions like sulfur dioxide and particulates compared to oil and offer more operational flexibility. However, the article highlights significant concerns about LNG’s suitability as a "bridge" fuel. The infrastructure costs for LNG are substantial, with estimates exceeding $1 billion for floating storage, pipelines, and new gas plants. These investments would need to be recovered before Hawaii’s 2045 goal of 100% renewable electricity, or else risk becoming stranded assets. Moreover, the
energyLNGrenewable-energyelectricity-generationHawaii-energy-policynatural-gaspower-infrastructureNew projects will build up Canada’s clean economy, but LNG exposure invites unnecessary risk - Clean Energy Canada
Rachel Doran, executive director of Clean Energy Canada, responded to the federal government’s announcement on national interest projects by highlighting a positive shift toward clean economy initiatives. Of the 11 projects designated, eight focus on clean economy sectors—five in critical minerals and three in clean energy and transmission—while only two involve fossil fuels. Doran emphasized that global energy employment growth is driven almost entirely by clean energy, with many countries adopting net-zero commitments, carbon pricing, and policies favoring electrification, such as domestic EV requirements and carbon border adjustments. However, Doran cautioned against the government’s support for new liquefied natural gas (LNG) production, citing the International Energy Agency’s (IEA) outlook that LNG supply is outpacing demand, which is expected to lead to falling prices and potential stranded assets by 2030. She warned that investing in LNG could burden Canadian taxpayers with subsidies for unprofitable projects, lost jobs, and unrealized revenues. Instead, Doran
clean-energyLNGcritical-mineralselectrificationenergy-policyclean-economynatural-gas"Energy Dominance" Means Forcing Other Countries To Buy Your LNG - CleanTechnica
The article from CleanTechnica critiques the U.S. administration’s concept of “energy dominance,” characterizing it as a coercive strategy to compel other countries to purchase U.S. liquefied natural gas (LNG), even at the expense of global climate goals. It highlights tensions surrounding the European Commission’s Corporate Sustainability Due Diligence Directive (CSDDD), which mandates large companies to identify and address human rights and environmental impacts in their operations and supply chains, and to implement climate transition plans aligned with the Paris Agreement’s 2050 neutrality target. While the directive aims to enforce corporate accountability for climate action, it faces strong opposition from affected corporations and foreign governments. Specifically, the article details a joint letter from U.S. Energy Secretary Chris Wright and Qatari Minister Saad Sherida Al-Kaabi to the European Commission, expressing serious concerns about the CSDDD’s impact on LNG export competitiveness and energy affordability in the EU. They warn that the directive’s provisions—especially
energyLNGenergy-policyclimate-changeEuropean-CommissionCorporate-Sustainability-Due-Diligence-Directiveenergy-exportsThe LNG Detour: What Scotland's New Ferry Teaches US - CleanTechnica
The article discusses Scotland’s Glen Sannox ferry, launched as the country’s first “green” ferry designed to run on dual fuels—marine diesel and liquefied natural gas (LNG)—with the goal of reducing emissions and improving local air quality on the mainland-Arran route. Despite its green intentions, the project has faced significant challenges, including a decade-long delay, escalating costs, and technical issues. The ferry only entered service in January 2025, ten years after its initial order in 2015. Meanwhile, recent research, notably the ICCT’s 2024 FUMES study, revealed that methane slip (unburned methane emissions) from LNG engines is significantly higher than previously estimated, casting doubt on the ferry’s climate benefits. CalMac’s analysis shows Glen Sannox emits about 10,391 tons of CO2 equivalent annually, approximately 35% more than the older diesel ferry it replaced, the Caledonian Isles, which emits 7,
energyLNGclean-energymaritime-transportemissionsclimate-impactdual-fuel-enginesRussia's Natural Gas Exports to Europe Have Dropped a Ton, But ... - CleanTechnica
The article from CleanTechnica discusses the significant decline in Europe’s imports of Russian natural gas and coal over recent years, highlighting data from the U.S. Energy Information Administration (EIA). Between 2021 and 2023, Europe reduced its natural gas imports from Russia by about two-thirds, now purchasing roughly one-third of the volume it previously did, excluding imports through Turkiye and Belarus. Despite this substantial reduction, Europe continues to buy some fossil gas from Russia, indicating challenges in fully weaning off Russian energy supplies. Meanwhile, Russia has redirected much of its natural gas exports to China, which has increased its purchases regardless of the geopolitical situation involving Ukraine. Regarding coal, Europe has nearly ceased buying Russian coal, except for Turkiye, which has actually increased its coal imports from Russia in 2023 and 2024. China and India have also ramped up their coal purchases from Russia. The article underscores the geopolitical and ethical complexities tied to fossil fuel dependencies and advocates for a rapid transition
energynatural-gasfossil-fuelsrenewable-energyEurope-energy-importsLNGenergy-transitionFossil Demand Decline In India & China Puts Canadian LNG At Risk - CleanTechnica
The article highlights a significant shift in energy demand patterns in India and China that poses risks to Canadian liquefied natural gas (LNG) exports. In India, the first half of 2025 saw a marked decline in fossil fuel-based electricity generation, with coal and gas-fired power dropping as renewable sources—particularly wind and solar—surged. Wind power grew by nearly a third year-over-year, and solar generation increased by about 25%, pushing the share of fossil fuels in India’s power mix below 70% for the first time in June. This transition is driven by economic factors: expensive and volatile LNG imports, limited domestic gas production, and cheaper coal and renewables have led to a 34% drop in gas-fired electricity generation. Consequently, India’s anticipated LNG demand growth has stalled, with LNG cargoes declining significantly. China is undergoing a parallel but distinct transformation. While its total electricity demand continues to rise, coal’s dominance is eroding both relatively and absolutely due to massive
energyrenewable-energyLNGsolar-powerwind-powercoal-displacementnatural-gasCanada’s National Projects: Betting on Nuclear & LNG While the Future Waits - CleanTechnica
Canada has recently designated five megaprojects as being in the national interest, with a heavy financial and climate commitment extending over decades. The approved projects are dominated by nuclear and LNG developments, which together account for nearly 90% of the adjusted projected spending—over CA$52 billion out of a total CA$58.8 billion when factoring in typical cost overruns based on historical data. Using Bent Flyvbjerg’s reference class forecasting, the article highlights that such megaprojects frequently experience significant delays, cost overruns (often exceeding 50%), and under-deliver on promised benefits. This pattern is evident in Canada’s nuclear initiative, particularly the Darlington small modular reactor (SMR) project, which, despite its ambition to be a G7 first, carries high risk due to its first-of-a-kind nature and historical nuclear project challenges. The LNG Canada Phase 2 project, estimated at CA$20 billion, also raises concerns. While proponents tout its efficiency and use of
energynuclear-energyLNGsmall-modular-reactorsclean-energy-projectsCanada-energy-policyenergy-infrastructureCanada's Fossil Fuel Funding Faces Growing Legal Risks After ICJ Ruling - CleanTechnica
The article discusses Canada’s continued public financial support for fossil fuel projects, highlighting the recent announcement of a floating liquefied natural gas (LNG) export terminal near Kitimat called Cedar LNG. While the project is promoted as a clean energy innovation powered by renewable electricity and involving Indigenous economic development, its full lifecycle emissions are substantial—estimated at roughly 300 million tons of CO₂ equivalent over 25 years. Despite renewable energy powering the facility itself, most emissions arise from the extraction, processing, shipping, and combustion of the LNG abroad. Cedar LNG joins other heavily subsidized fossil fuel projects in British Columbia, such as an operational LNG facility in Kitimat that has received tens of millions in tax exemptions and infrastructure support, with total subsidies for such projects reaching billions of dollars. The article also highlights the broader context of Canada’s longstanding, bipartisan financial backing of fossil fuel infrastructure, exemplified by the Trans Mountain Expansion pipeline. Initially budgeted at $7 billion, the pipeline’s costs ballooned to $
energyrenewable-energyfossil-fuelsLNGcarbon-emissionsenergy-infrastructureclean-energy-innovationEurope’s $750 Billion Energy Pledge To Trump Is Pure Political Theater - CleanTechnica
In July 2025, the European Union and the United States announced a trade agreement in which Europe pledged to purchase $750 billion worth of U.S. energy products over three years, alongside significant investments in American infrastructure and manufacturing. This deal was hailed as a major diplomatic and economic victory for President Trump. However, analysts have criticized the energy commitment as largely symbolic political theater rather than a feasible economic plan, given the enormous scale and logistical challenges involved. Currently, the EU imports about $76 billion annually in U.S. energy, mainly LNG, petroleum, and nuclear fuels. Meeting the agreement's target would require tripling these imports almost immediately, which faces significant barriers. U.S. and European LNG infrastructure is already near capacity, and expanding export and import facilities would take years and substantial investment. Shipping constraints and long-term contracts with other suppliers further limit Europe's ability to increase U.S. energy imports rapidly. Additionally, European energy companies operate in competitive global markets and are unlikely to prioritize U.S. supplies
energyEuropean-UnionUnited-StatesLNGenergy-infrastructureenergy-tradeenergy-policyBillions In Subsidies Flow To LNG Canada As Kitimat Terminal Nears Launch - CleanTechnica
The article highlights the extensive public subsidies and fiscal incentives underpinning the launch of LNG Canada’s Phase 1 liquefied natural gas terminal in Kitimat, a project initially valued at around C$17–18 billion. Federal, provincial, municipal, and international support has played a critical role in reducing the project's capital costs. Notably, the federal government contributed approximately C$275 million in direct grants, including C$220 million from the Strategic Innovation Fund for advanced gas turbines and C$55 million for infrastructure upgrades like the Haisla Bridge. Beyond direct funding, significant hidden subsidies have been provided through tax exemptions and tariff waivers, such as the roughly C$1 billion exemption on import duties for fabricated steel modules sourced primarily from Asia, which substantially lowered construction costs. The article also contrasts the political reactions to LNG Canada’s reliance on large-scale imports from China with the contentious debate over British Columbia’s decision to commission hybrid ferries from Chinese shipyards. While the ferry contracts sparked vocal partisan criticism
energyLNGsubsidiesnatural-gasinfrastructurefossil-fuelsCanadaLNG Canada’s True Cost: 2.2 Billion Tons Of CO₂e Over 50 Years - CleanTechnica
LNG Canada, a large liquefied natural gas facility in Kitimat, British Columbia, is nearing full operation and represents a significant development in Canada's energy and climate landscape. The project, led by Shell with international partners, aims to export 14 million tons of LNG annually, sourced from British Columbia’s Montney Formation and transported via the 670-kilometer Coastal GasLink pipeline. While LNG Canada incorporates efficiency measures such as using hydroelectric power for part of its liquefaction energy and employing high-efficiency turbines, the overall LNG supply chain remains energy-intensive and emits substantial greenhouse gases. The facility primarily serves Asian markets, with shorter shipping routes compared to U.S. Gulf Coast LNG exports, which somewhat reduces transit emissions. Despite these efficiencies, the full LNG supply chain experiences significant energy losses—about 66% of the original energy content is lost from extraction through to electricity generation. This includes losses during gas transmission, liquefaction, marine transport, regasification, and power generation,
energyLNGnatural-gasemissionshydroelectricitygas-turbinesenergy-efficiency