Capital Clean Energy Carriers seals $770m LNG newbuild deal in South Korea

Capital Clean Energy Carriers (CCEC) has expanded its long-term LNG strategy with an order for three next-generation LNG carriers at HD Hyundai Samho Heavy Industries in South Korea, committing nearly $770 million to the project.

The Nasdaq-listed shipowner has reserved three construction slots at the yard, with deliveries scheduled to begin in the third quarter of 2028. The remaining two vessels are set to follow in the first quarter of 2029.

CCEC said the LNG carriers will be built to enhanced technical specifications, incorporating designs aimed at maximising fuel efficiency. The vessels are expected to deliver lower fuel consumption and reduced boil-off rates, placing them among the most efficient LNG carriers currently being built.

With this latest order, CCEC’s LNG fleet continues to grow. The company now operates 12 LNG carriers and has nine more on order, with deliveries planned between the third quarter of 2026 and early 2029.

The owner said the timing of the newbuild programme aligns with projected growth in global LNG production. Worldwide liquefaction capacity is expected to increase from roughly 493 million tonnes per annum at present to at least 649 million tonnes per annum by the end of the decade, driving additional demand for modern LNG tonnage.

CCEC is also broadening its exposure across the gas shipping segment. Beyond LNG, the company has 10 additional gas carriers on order, including four handysize LCO₂/multi-gas vessels and six dual-fuel, mid-size gas carriers. Deliveries for these ships are due to commence in early 2026.