Sustainable Fuels for the Transport and Maritime Sector: A Blueprint of the LNG Distribution Network

Abstract

Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG) is one of the alternative sustainable fuels available to the transportation sector. A new distribution network needs to be in place to enable better accessibility and more efficient usage of this fuel type for all modes of transport. Currently, a chicken-and-egg problem can be noted where users wait for the infrastructure to be in place and suppliers do not initiate new investments due to uncertainty in future usage. In this paper we aim to fill this void by visualizing the supply chain of LNG and bio-LNG and derive essential issues to be addressed in developing LNG networks. These issues form the blueprint of the LNG distribution network, supported by the empirical input of stakeholders through interviews and expert sessions. We classify the challenges found in terms of supply chain network design literature and indicate future research issues.