TOKYO-Mitsui O.S.K. Lines, Ltd. (MOL) has announced the signing of a long-term charter contract for a new building LNG carrier with a vessel operation management company funded by JERA Co., Inc. (JERA).

This is the seventh contract, following a time charter contract for the sixth LNG carrier that was signed for JERA.

MOL said the vessel will be built at the Geoje Shipyard of SAMSUNG HEAVY INDUSTRIES CO., LTD, and is scheduled for delivery in 2026.

It will be managed by MOL and will transport LNG for JERA.

The new vessel will be equipped with the cutting-edge MAN Energy Solutions engine (ME-GA), which improves fuel consumption efficiency and has specifications that enhance its environmental friendliness compared to conventional LNG carriers.

MOL said the expansion of its LNG fleet and long-term charter contracts, including this project, is part of its "BLUE ACTION 2035" management plan, which highlights the company's sustainability goals.

It aims to achieve net zero greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions by 2050.