The intense activity in the field of newer alternative fuels characterizes the start of 2026, as evidenced by data from DNV’s Alternative Fuels Insight platform.
It is noteworthy that in January the orderbook was strengthened with a total of 20 new contracts, with LNG-fueled ships remaining firmly at the top of shipowners’ preference. Specifically, sixteen of these are LNG-propelled containerships, while the orders are complemented by three LPG carriers and one offshore vessel fueled by methanol.
Finally, the active and on-order alternative fuel fleet is currently configured as follows:
LNG: 1,509
Methanol: 449
LPG: 303
Ammonia: 49
Hydrogen: 37
These orders signal a clear continuation of trends from 2025, with container ships dominating the alternative-fueled vessel orderbook and LNG constituting the main “decarbonization” fuel.
