As reported by DNV, the surge in orders for alternative-fueled vessels that characterized the early months of 2025 has significantly slowed down. In September, only 14 such ships were commissioned, and August saw no new orders at all. Shipowners are also hesitant to commit to new alternative-fueled vessels due to ongoing uncertainties regarding emissions regulations from the International Maritime Organization (IMO). Among those still placing orders for dual-fuel ships during this period, most are leaning towards LNG-powered options according to DNV’s data. Top image: An LNG-powered PCTC docked at Tianjin in 2024 (image credit: China News Service / CC BY SA 3.0)