How Dual-Fuel Newbuilds are Reshaping Bulker and Tanker Performance

The latest dual-fuel market penetration data from VesselsValue reveals a stark divergence between bulker and tanker segments. Both sectors’ embrace of alternative fuel technologies signals significant implications for the future emissions profile of the global fleet.

Tankers:

In accordance with senior content analyst, Rebecca Galanopoulos, dual-fuel adoption in the tanker sector remains in its early stages, with live fleet penetration ranging from 0% for panamax/LR1 vessels to just 4.8% for aframax/LR2 tonnage. However, the orderbook data signals a fundamental shift in newbuilding strategy.

Aframax/LR2 vessels lead the transition with 18.4% of vessels on order specified with dual fuel capability, followed by suezmaxes at 14.4% and VLCCS at 13.6%.

This substantial orderbook shift reflects shipowners’ response to tightening emissions regulations,