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ABS and Keppel O&M unit join SEA/LNG coalition

ABS and Keppel O&M unit join SEA/LNG coalition
The SEA/LNG coalition aimed at accelerating the widespread adoption of LNG as a marine fuel has gained two valuable new partners in ABS and Keppel Offshore & Marine (Keppel O&M) Gas Technology Development, each representing key aspects of the Liquefied Natural Gas maritime value chain.

Classification society ABS has a wealth experience in risk assessment and hazard analyses related to LNG bunkering, including proving the feasibility of certain simultaneous operations (SIMOPs) – a crucial aspect of the economic viability of LNG as a marine fuel – meeting the intent of industry safety standards.

It also also brings to the table more than 150 years of experience and a deep understanding of “future energy demands and the environmental drivers of today’s dynamic markets,” commented ABS chairman, president and ceo Christopher J. Wiernicki, as well as a “forward-looking approach to help balance those challenges with operational safety and performance needs.”

Set up in 2015, Keppel O&M’s Gas Technology Development provides a range of gas solutions along the value chain. The division has significant LNG R&D capabilities and a strong track record in the conversion of floating storage and regasification units; it is also undertaking the world’s first floating liquefaction vessel conversion.

The Keppel O&M group further strengthened its track record in LNG by last month securing contracts to build its first two dual-fuel diesel LNG harbour tugs, as well as signing an MOU with Shell to jointly explore potential opportunities in the LNG sector.

Peter Keller, chairman of SEA\LNG, welcomed the new partners’ addition of “valuable industry expertise and perspective” at a time when SEA/LNG’s work to promote the environmental and performance benefits of LNG as a marine fuel had “moved up a gear” following the IMO Marine Environment Protection Committee’s recent decision to enforce the global 0.5% cap on the Sulphur content of fuels by 2020.

Launched in July 2016, the SEA/LNG coalition now comprises: ABS, Carnival Corp & plc, DNV GL, Eagle LNG, ENGIE, ENN, GE, GTT, Keppel O&M, Lloyd’s Register, Mitsubishi Corp, NYK Line, Port of Rotterdam, Qatargas, Shell, TOTE Inc and Wärtsilä.