Energy infrastructure and LNG solutions provider WesPac Midstream and its subsidiary Clean Marine Energy (CME) have awarded a contract to Conrad Orange Shipyard for the construction of a dedicated LNG bunker barge for the marine market in North America.
The bunker barge, which is scheduled to be delivered in early 2016, will service ship owner Totem Ocean’s Orca Class roro vessel in Tacoma, Washington. The barge is then expected to head to Jacksonville, Florida to serve new build marlin class container vessels and other LNG-powered vessels in the Port of Jacksonville.
The vessel is part of WesPac's and its affiliate, Clean Marine Energy’s strategy to provide integrated LNG solutions for engine conversion, infrastructure, supply and delivery logistics to the shipping industry.
WesPac is a leading provider of energy infrastructure and LNG solutions, and its affiliate Clean Marine Energy is a global facilitator of tailored solutions for Emission Control Area (ECA) compliance.
Pace Ralli, CEO and co-founder of CME commented: “A comprehensive LNG supply and distribution network for the marine market in North America is critical for the shipping industry. Today’s announcement shows that WesPac/CME is taking the necessary steps to complete the LNG supply chain so ship owners can be assured LNG will be available when and where it is needed.”
The first 2,200m³ LNG barge will feature one tank equipped with MARK III Flex cargo containment technology, which is developed by French engineering and technology company Gaztransport & Technigaz (GTT).
Earlier this year, Conrad Shipyard signed a Technical Assistance and License Agreement (TALA) with GTT North America for the design and construction of LNG barges and LNG-fueled vessel bunker tanks using GTT's membrane containment systems.