Mureloil launches hybrid chemical tanker for bunkering and terminal transport

Spanish shipowner Mureloil on Thursday (17 July) launched Bahía Candela, a next-generation hybrid chemical tanker on 29 June, which was built at the Spanish shipyard Astilleros de Murueta and chartered by Repsol. 

Specifically designed for bunkering operations and terminal-to-terminal fuel transport, the vessel sets a new benchmark for operational efficiency and emissions reduction in the small tanker segment.

The Bahía Candela is the first of two sister vessels, with the second named Bahía Beatriz, which will be delivered at a later time, both of which will be operated by Repsol as part of its maritime decarbonisation strategy to develop low-carbon fuel logistics including green methanol.

Building on the success of Bahía Levante, the new vessel features a diesel-electric propulsion system combined with 4.2 MW of lithium-ion batteries, enabling fully electric port operations for up to 72 hours—including cargo handling and manoeuvring—with zero direct GHG emissions.

Its dynamic hybrid power management system allows real-time energy optimisation, delivering up to 50% CO₂ reductions compared to conventional tankers of similar size. The vessel is OPS-ready (Onshore Power Supply compliant), supports cold ironing, and is designed to handle emerging low-carbon fuels, aligning with evolving market and regulatory demands.

Photo credit: Mureloil
Published: 18 July, 2025