An exploratory study on the perceptions of stakeholders in LNG Bunkering Supply Chain

Abstract

IMO 2020 regulations force maritime industry to look for alternative fuels for compliance. LNG is a promising option as a fuel considering today's emission control regulations and for measures to be adopted in the future. However, supply chain development for small-scale LNG is not at the expected level. The study examines the development of LNG bunkering supply chain based on different perspectives of stakeholders. The research explores the challenges regarding LNG bunkering development and aims to provide suggestions to overcome these challenges. Semi-structured interviews were conducted through purpose sampling including various representatives of LNG bunkering supply chain. The study identifies barriers in LNG bunkering development, categorizes some key approaches and links challenges from the view point of relevant stakeholders for improvement in supply chain. The research findings indicate that collaboration of stakeholders is the main driver for LNG bunkering development, public opinion, standardisation and transparency are the other outstanding factors to improve LNG bunkering supply chain.