Why TotalEnergies & CMA CGM Use LNG for Shipping

TotalEnergies and CMA CGM are launching a joint venture focused on LNG bunkering logistics.

This is the first time a shipping company and energy provider will co-develop and operate refuelling infrastructure for maritime transport.

This 50/50 partnership will introduce a 20,000m³ LNG bunker vessel within the Amsterdam-Rotterdam-Antwerp (ARA) port corridor by 2028, providing comprehensive supply chain logistics for liquefied natural gas as a marine fuel.

The essence of LNG bunkering, refuelling vessels with liquefied natural gas instead of traditional marine fuels, relies heavily on the establishment of appropriate storage, transport and delivery mechanisms.

The deal sets out to secure just that, with long-term logistics woven into a wider commitment to maritime decarbonisation.

Coordinating LNG bunkering from vessel to port

Rotterdam, Europe's largest port, is at the heart of this agreement.

From the gate terminal, where LNG is offloaded, to ship-to-ship bunkering operations at berth, the CMA CGM–TotalEnergies partnership will oversee the entire logistical chain.

The goal is a streamlined delivery system not only for CMA CGM's vessels but also for other maritime operators using the ARA corridor.

TotalEnergies already operates the Gas Agility, an 18,600m³ LNG bunker vessel, launched in 2020.

The introduction of a larger vessel into the operation is anticipated to foster operational efficiencies, adding more flexibility to shipping timelines, reducing turnaround durations and minimising emissions linked to inefficient fuelling operations.

"With this joint venture, CMA CGM and TotalEnergies are taking a new step to support the energy transition in shipping,” explains Rodolphe Saadé, Chairman and CEO of CMA CGM Group.

“For the first time, a shipping company and an energy provider will jointly operate an LNG bunkering vessel, based in the port of Rotterdam.”

A supply contract through 2040

Beyond logistics, the venture rests on a robust supply framework.

TotalEnergies has committed to supply up to 360,000 tonnes of LNG yearly to CMA CGM from 2028, extending through 2040.

This fuel will support a growing dual-fuel fleet, targeted to reach 123 LNG-powered vessels by 2029, forming a key element of CMA CGM’s net-zero ambition.

As a marine fuel, LNG can cut greenhouse gas emissions by up to 20% compared to traditional options.

The benefits become even greater when combined with biomethane or synthetic gas.

It greatly diminishes other pollutants such as nitrogen oxides and sulphur oxides, making it an eco-friendlier choice not just for climate considerations but also for port air standards.

“We are proud to further contribute, alongside a partner like CMA CGM, to the development of an LNG bunkering supply chain in one of Europe’s leading port hubs,” adds Patrick Pouyanné, Chairman and CEO of TotalEnergies.

“This strategic partnership not only strengthens our position as a major player in LNG bunkering but also illustrates the shared commitment of two leading French companies to actively support the energy transition.”

For regions such as Europe, LNG imports offer adaptability, particularly in times of crisis or when pipeline supplies are unpredictable.