The gas carrier, like the rest of the fleet, has been equipped with solutions to increase its energy efficiency and reduce the environmental impact of the vessel's operation, including integrated management of electrical power consumption. During the design phase, the shape of the hull and propeller were optimised to reduce drag. Air Lubrication System (ALS) technology was used to reduce friction between the hull and the water surface. By working on the hydrodynamic profile, it has been possible to reduce fuel burn while the vessel is in operation.

"Another unit in the fleet built for ORLEN Group has commenced its scheduled service in international waters, strengthening the Company's position on the global LNG market. Diversification of directions and sources of raw material supplies and independence in the disposal of transport are a guarantee of energy security. The use of our own fleet ensures the stability of LNG supplies to Poland and at the same time increases the operational flexibility of the concern," says Daniel Obajtek, CEO of PKN Orlen.

The ship Grażyna Gęsicka was built at one of the world's leading shipyards specialising in LNG vessels. Hyundai Heavy Industries, located in Ulsan, Korea. Like the other vessels ordered by the Orlen Group, it measures 300 metres and has a capacity of approximately 105 million m3 of natural gas in a volatile state. Ship's design also incorporates a reliquefaction system to recover gas that is naturally vaporised during transport. The efficiency of this process is enhanced by adequate insulation of the LNG tank. Compared to older-type units, the solution used significantly reduces cargo losses. In addition, the gas recovered during transport can be used as fuel for engines or to produce the electricity needed to power the ship's equipment. The use of low-emission natural gas significantly reduces carbon dioxide emissions compared to typical fuels used in heavy sea transport. In addition to environmentally friendly solutions, the size and capacity of the vessels ordered by the Group allow it to receive cargoes from almost all liquefaction and regasification terminals worldwide. In this way, they are to increase the potential of Orlen Group's involvement in international LNG trade.

The delivery made at the end of June by Grażyna Gęsicka is the 30th taken by the Group since the beginning of this year and the 236th since the Świnoujście gas port began operating. One delivery of 100 m3 of raw material on such a gas carrier means meeting the monthly gas demand of households in a city of up to half a million inhabitants. PKN Orlen has contracted a total of eight vessels to deliver LNG to Poland, thus ensuring the country's energy security.

By the end of 2025, Orlen Group is expected to have eight LNG vessels at its disposal. The operator from which they are chartered is the Norwegian company Knutsen OAS Shipping. In addition to Saint Barbara, a vessel named Ignacy Lukasiewicz is also under construction. Both are already launched and being retrofitted.