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The Port of Zeebrugge's project to develop an LNG bunkering infrastructure is moving forward following the completion of the understructure for the second LNG jetty, which was undertaken by Wilrijk-based contractor MBG.

With the understructure completed, Fluxys Belgium - an operator of natural gas transmission grid and storage infrastructure in the country - can begin to build the superstructure.

For this stage of the project, Spanish-Italian firm TS LNG has been appointed as contractor. The company is a joint venture between TechInt E&C and SENER.

The second jetty for loading and unloading LNG carriers is scheduled to enter into service in 2015. The jetty will be able to accommodate both small and large LNG carriers, with capacities of between 2,000 and 217,000 cubic metres of LNG.

The Port of Zeebrugge says it has already seen a rise in LNG export volumes. When the second jetty enters into service in 2015, this will enable to the port to increase its flexibility in being able to handle LNG imports and exports.

"With the construction of the second jetty, Port of Zeebrugge continues to evolve into a hub for the supply of LNG as a fuel for ships and long-distance haulage trucks," the port said.

Image: Port of Zeebrugge.