Shell has floated an enquiry for a large tranche of MR product and handysize chemical tankers that could stack up at 30 newbuildings worth over $1.2bn.

Newbuilding sources said that under its “Project Solar”, Shell is seeking up to 16 handysize chemical carriers comprising 10 firm ships with three additional pairs of options.

The British-Dutch energy major is also looking for a further eight IMO type 2 MR tankers made up of four newbuildings plus two sets of two optional slots.