The Port of Riga has received its first-ever shipment of aviation fuel from the United States, marking a significant shift in Latvia’s energy supply chain. Coinciding with the delivery, terminal operator SIA Naftimpeks inaugurated a modern fuel filling and discharging ramp designed to support the new import flows.
The new ramp, representing an investment of over €2 million, is touted as the most modern facility of its kind in the Baltic States.
- Capacity: The infrastructure can handle up to 200,000 tons of fuel per month.
- Operations: While SIA Naftimpeks plans to process approximately 10,000 tons of aviation fuel monthly, the ramp handles diesel and other fuel types for local gas stations and Riga Airport.
Historically a transit-focused company, SIA Naftimpeks has pivoted to meet local market demands. Board Chairman Ivars Blumbergs noted the dual celebration:”We are welcoming the first ship from the USA with aviation fuel… and at the same time we are opening a new, most modern fuel filling/discharging ramp in the Baltics.”
Shipment Details The inaugural delivery arrived on the DAS, a 183-meter oil and chemical tanker with a deadweight tonnage of 50,261 tons.
- Volume: The vessel discharged 20,000 tons of fuel.
- Impact: This single shipment covers roughly two months of winter fuel consumption for Riga Airport.
- Conditions: Due to ice, the icebreaker Varma escorted the tanker from the Irbe Strait to the port.