The role of Hellenic shipbuilding sector in the LNG era presented

The present and the future of the shipbuilding industry in Greece towards LNG as fuel era, was the focus of the discussion organised by Piraeus Port Authority (PPA), within the framework of the European co-funded project Poseidon Med II. The event, which took place on 26 June, at the Conference Hall of PPA, gathered representatives from Hellenic shipyards, project partners and delegates from the marine sector.

During the meeting, speakers highlighted Poseidon Med II scope and activities, as well as the under development designs of vessel retrofits and new buildings within Poseidon Med II. The focus areas of the meeting are summarized in the following questions:

• Could LNG as fuel choice contribute to the rival of the Hellenic shipbuilding sector?

• How the Hellenic shipyards could be “LNG ready”?

• What kind of support could Poseidon Med II offer?

The establishment of Revithoussa terminal as LNG hub for the regional supply chain and the Europa Ship Plan, an initiative of the Hellenic Shortsea Shipowners Association, introducing a sustainable financing strategy for the renewal of the Short Sea Shipping fleet, was also presented. Specific emphasis was given to the Poseidon Med II shipyards’ assessment regarding their “readiness” for LNG as fuel era, as well as the role of the professional chambers.

At the event opening, Mr Dimitrios Spyrou, Consultant in PPA’s Strategic Planning & Marketing Department noted: “The adoption of LNG as marine fuel will create fertile ground for sustainable development of the Greek shipbuilding sector and employment opportunities, which are vital for Greece. Piraeus Port Authority’s new floating dock with carrying capacity 80,000 tons and the four existing extensively repaired docks will definitely contribute to this end”.