LNG and the FuelEU Maritime Regulation: Navigating Compliance in 2025 and Beyond

With the EU’s FuelEU Maritime Regulation kicking in January 2025, shipowners and operators face a pivotal challenge: reducing greenhouse gas (GHG) intensity across their fleets. 

For those already invested in LNG as a marine fuel, the regulation presents not just a hurdle—but a strategic advantage.

What Is FuelEU Maritime?

FuelEU Maritime mandates a gradual reduction in the GHG intensity of energy used onboard ships calling at EU ports. Starting with a 2% reduction in 2025, the targets tighten through 2030 and beyond. Compliance is measured on a well-to-wake basis, accounting for upstream emissions and methane slip.

How LNG Measures Up

LNG’s well-to-wake emissions average 82.1 gCO₂e/MJ, significantly lower than conventional fuels like VLSFO (91.7 gCO₂e/MJ) and MGO (90.8 gCO₂e/MJ). Depending on engine type and methane management, some LNG-fueled vessels can achieve even lower values—into the low 70s.

This positions LNG-powered ships to:

•     Meet 2025 FuelEU targets from day one

•     Avoid penalties that could exceed $500,000 annually for conventional vessels

•     Generate surplus compliance credits to offset other fleet liabilities

Industry Impact: LNG’s Role in Emissions Reduction

Recent analysis suggests that LNG, alongside biodiesel blends, could deliver up to 90% of the required CO₂ eq reductions between 2025 and 2029. In Rotterdam, LNG already accounts for 3% of bunker fuel sales, and its share is expected to grow as operators seek compliance-ready solutions.

Strategic Implications for Ports and Operators

For UK ports and operators, LNG infrastructure is no longer a speculative investment—it’s a compliance enabler. CryoSafe’s focus on safe, scalable LNG solutions aligns perfectly with this regulatory shift. By supporting LNG bunkering operations and infrastructure development, we help clients:

•     Future-proof operations against tightening EU standards

•     Minimise exposure to FuelEU penalties

•     Enhance sustainability credentials in a carbon-conscious market

Looking Ahead

While LNG isn’t the final destination in maritime decarbonisation, it’s a critical waypoint. As RFNBOs and biofuels scale up, LNG offers a proven, lower-carbon bridge—especially for high-traffic EU routes.

At CryoSafe, we believe compliance should be more than reactive. It’s an opportunity to lead. Let’s chart that course together

If you would like to know more about us and the services we offer, please contact sd@cryosafe.co.uk or gw@cryosafe.co.uk.