The North Sea port authority said it conducted a risk assessment that demonstrated that the port meets the conditions required to safely and efficiently carry out refuelling operations for LNG, hydrogen, methanol and ammonia.

The analysis was commissioned to determine which berths across the port area are suitable for alternative fuel bunkering as international shipping shifts away from conventional fossil fuels such as fuel oil and diesel. The study examined both truck-to-ship and ship-to-ship refuelling for maritime and inland vessels.

In addition to nautical risks, the assessment considered surrounding infrastructure, including roads, wind turbines, high-voltage lines and Seveso-regulated facilities handling hazardous substances.

Cas König, CEO of North Sea Port, said: "The independent risk analysis showed that LNG, hydrogen, methanol and ammonia can be safely refuelled throughout the port area — in Vlissingen, Terneuzen and Ghent — with maximum consideration for safety and the surrounding area. Tanker vessels and tank trucks can safely supply these alternative fuels to maritime and inland shipping that use them as fuel."

During this phase, policy frameworks were tested, safety requirements validated and preparations for trial operations completed. Companies were surveyed to identify the necessary safety and infrastructure requirements for each fuel type.

According to the study, the lower energy density and specific characteristics of these fuels, including higher flammability and toxicity, mean that more frequent bunkering operations may be required compared with conventional fuels, alongside stricter safety and infrastructure standards.

In response to calls from companies, public authorities and local residents for clarity, the port authority has created a bunkering map showing approved refuelling locations for each fuel across the port area.

Controlled bunkering operations are set to take place in the near future. Each test will be evaluated with the parties involved and emergency services to further refine procedures. The port said this approach is intended to prepare for larger and more frequent alternative fuel bunkering operations while strengthening market confidence.

The study also supports North Sea Port’s broader objectives to expand future-proof infrastructure, strengthen intermodal cooperation, including sustainable transport routes such as Green Corridors, and enhance sustainability across the nautical logistics chain.

North Sea Port’s readiness for each fuel was assessed against international standards from the International Association of Ports and Harbours (IAPH) and the Port Readiness Level instrument for maritime fuels. The port authority said it is working towards developing common bunkering standards with other Dutch and Belgian ports.

North Sea Port is a cross-border port hub that encompasses the areas of Vlissingen and Terneuzen in the Netherlands, along with Ghent in Belgium.