Japanese shipping giant NYK and leading LPG trader Astomos Energy Corporation have made significant strides in sustainable shipping with the christening ceremony of their new liquefied petroleum gas (LPG)/ammonia carrier, Gas Garnet. The event, held at Kawasaki Heavy Industries' Sakaide Works, marked a milestone in Japan's maritime industry.

Gas Garnet, christened by Astomos Energy's senior executive officer Yoshihito Takahashi, boasts impressive dimensions, measuring 229.9 meters in length and 37.2 meters in breadth, with a tank capacity of 86,953 cubic meters. Equipped with a dual-fuel engine capable of utilizing both heavy oil and LPG, the carrier sets a new standard in eco-friendly maritime technology.

A notable feature of Gas Garnet is its innovative shaft generator, enabling the vessel to generate electricity through the rotation of the main engine shaft, thereby reducing reliance on diesel generators during standard navigation and facilitating full LPG-fueled operations.

NYK reports significant environmental benefits associated with Gas Garnet's LPG propulsion, including a reduction of more than 95% in sulfur oxides (SOx) and 20% in carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions compared to conventional heavy oil-fueled vessels. This underscores the vessel's pivotal role in advancing decarbonization efforts within the maritime sector.

 Jointly owned by NYK and Astomos Energy, Gas Garnet represents a collaborative effort aimed at promoting environmentally friendly fleet development and accelerating the decarbonization of the supply chain. Building upon their successful partnership, the companies seek to strengthen their relationship and continue leading the industry towards a greener, more sustainable future.

Gas Garnet follows in the footsteps of previous collaborations between NYK and Astomos Energy, including the vessels Lupinus Planet and Lantana Planet, further solidifying their commitment to driving innovation and sustainability in maritime transportation.