KEYS Azalea, the LNG bunkering vessel owned by KEYS Bunkering West Japan Ltd, achieved its 100th LNG bunkering operation on October 21, 2026. The vessel celebrated this milestone by supplying fuel to the cargo ship SG Dawn, operated by NYK Line.
History of LNG Bunkering
KEYS Azalea began its operations in April 2024 with its first LNG bunkering operation ship-to-ship in western Japan. Since then, the vessel has been able to supply LNG fuel to a wide range of LNG-equipped ships, including car carriers, bulk carriers for iron ore and coal, as well as cruise ships.
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Reduction of CO₂ Emissions
Assuming that all LNG supplied to date has been used as a replacement for heavy fuel oil (HFO) traditionally used in maritime transport, it is estimated that CO₂ emissions have been reduced by approximately 75,000 tons. This statistic is based on a comparison of calculated equivalent energy inputs.
NYKGroup is continuously advancing the development of the LNG bunkering network in Japan. The company achieves this goal by operating two dedicated vessels, KEYS Azalea in western Japan and Kaguya in Ise Bay in eastern Japan. With Kaguya reaching its 200th bunkering operation on September 30, 2026, KEYS Azalea's achievement represents an important step in the ongoing implementation of LNG bunkering infrastructure in the eastern and western regions of the country.
Future Outlook
KEYS Bunkering will continue to provide safe and reliable LNG bunkering services and will play a role in achieving a carbon-neutral society and developing the LNG bunkering industry in Japan.
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