MOL agrees new LNG newbuild charter with JERA

Japanese Mitsui O.S.K. Lines (MOL) has inked a long-term charter contract for a newbuilding LNG carrier with a vessel operation management company funded by JERA Co.

As informed, this is the sixth contract, following a time charter contract for five LNG carriers that were signed for JERA.

The 290-meter-long vessel will be built at the Geoje Shipyard of Samsung Heavy Industries (SHI) and is scheduled for delivery in 2027.

Furthermore, it will be managed by MOL and will transport LNG for JERA.

MOL emphasized that the new vessel will be equipped with MAN Energy Solutions’ (MAN ES) engine (ME-GA), which is expected to improve fuel consumption efficiency. These specifications should enhance its environment friendliness, compared to conventional LNG carriers.

Through this long-term charter contract, MOL plans to contribute to the realization of a stable supply of LNG in partnership with JERA.

Recently, MOL has also signed a charter deal with INEOS for two LNG carriers. The vessels will be used for the import of LNG into Germany from the United States.

The vessels have a capacity of 174,000 cbm and are being built at the Okpo Shipyard in South Korea. The duo will be equipped with the latest MAN Energy Solutions engines (ME-GA), air lubrication technology, and shaft generators making them highly efficient.