JANUARY 29, 2013 — Viking Line, which has just placed the 2,800-passenger dual fuel cruise ferry Viking Grace into service, is among participants in a project aimed at identifying and addressing potential barriers to the construction and operation of liquefied natural gas (LNG) fueled vessels. A major part of the project is a study that is to get €1.2 million of European Union funding under the TEN-T program.

The study will examine the technical requirements, regulations and environmental operation permits that need to be met in order to shift from traditionally fueled engines to cheaper and more environmentally friendly LNG.

Specific aspects related to the manufacturing, conversion, certification and operation phases of a LNG fueled vessel will be analyzed. These results will be exchanged with other ongoing LNG-related projects as well as with the European Maritime Safety Agency. The project will be implemented in a partnership with stakeholders consisting of ship-owners, cargo owners, LNG suppliers, ports and marine equipment manufacturers.

The following are listed as funding beneficiaries and implementing bodies:

• SSPA Sweden AB
• Sirius Rederi AB
• Preem AB
• Fartygskonstruktioner AB
• Svensk Rederiservice AB
• Det Norske Veritas AB
• Viking Line Abp

The project will be managed by the Trans-European Transport Network Executive Agency and is set to be completed by the end of 2014.