The U.S. Coast Guard has issued Policy Letter CG-OES 01-25, effective July 24, 2025, to guide the bunkering of vessels using LNG and other alternative marine fuels.
This new directive replaces previous guidance from 2015, reflecting the evolution of marine fuel technologies.
As the industry moves toward cleaner alternatives, existing U.S. regulations have lagged behind—particularly regarding non-petroleum-based bunkering. The new policy aims to bridge these regulatory gaps with a risk-based model tailored to modern fuels.
Rather than setting strict prescriptive rules, the Coast Guard emphasizes the use of current industry standards and a flexible, assessment-driven approach.
Captains of the Port (COTPs) are encouraged to collaborate with Harbor Safety Committees to evaluate and mitigate local risks effectively.
This policy shift underscores the importance of adapting safety frameworks as more vessels adopt LNG and other alternative fuels. It also highlights a growing need for port-specific strategies that consider unique operational challenges.
The Coast Guard has made the full policy letter available online, offering industry stakeholders direct access to updated procedures.
As the marine fuel landscape continues to evolve, Clipper Oil remains committed to tracking policy changes and supporting safe, compliant fueling operations around the globe.
