On September 17, 2025, Shell Marine completed its first LNG bunkering operation at Portland Port, United Kingdom, marking a key milestone in the company’s global LNG infrastructure expansion and its dedication to accelerating maritime decarbonization through strategic port partnerships. The operation involved the Frida Knutsen, a cutting-edge dual-fuel LNG shuttle tanker, which received LNG via a seamless ship-to-ship transfer. This marks Shell’s initial LNG delivery at Portland, enhancing its bunkering network in Northern Europe.
Strategically located on the UK’s southern coast, Portland Port is emerging as a vital hub in the regional LNG supply chain. The operation, facilitated by collaboration between Shell Marine, Eni Trade & Biofuels, Enilive, and the Port of Portland Authority, reflects growing demand for cleaner fuels in UK and European waters. The Frida Knutsen, part of a fleet supported by Shell for over three years, was previously bunkered in Rotterdam and Skaw.
Dexter Belmar, Vice President of Global Downstream LNG at Shell, highlighted the inclusion of Portland in the bunkering network as a testament to the company’s ability to provide scalable LNG solutions, strengthening the shipping sector’s decarbonization efforts. This operation expands Shell’s global LNG bunkering network to 28 locations across 13 countries, supporting compliance with IMO, EU Fit for 55, and UK Maritime 2050 regulations. LNG reduces greenhouse gas emissions by up to 20 % compared to traditional marine fuels and eliminates nearly all SOx and particulate matter emissions.
The success of the Portland operation underscores the importance of multi-stakeholder collaboration, with Shell thanking Eni Trade & Biofuels, Enilive, and the Port of Portland Authority. This milestone positions Portland as a forward-looking maritime hub for low-emission vessels and opens opportunities for future bunkering in the English Channel.
