Conrad Shipyard to build first US LNG bunker barge

The 2,200 cu m vessel scheduled for delivery in early 2016, is set for deployment in Tacoma, Washington, to service Totem Ocean Trailer Express’s (Totem Ocean) ro-ro vessels, in addition to other LNG-powered vessels.

From there the barge will be relocated to Florida to serve parent company TOTE’s newbuild container vessels and other LNG-powered vessels in the Port of Jacksonville.

“A comprehensive LNG supply and distribution network for the marine market in North America is critical for the shipping industry,” said Pace Ralli, ceo of CME. “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.”

Peter Keller, evp of TOTE, stated: “We are pleased to work with our partners WesPac and CME on these groundbreaking LNG projects. This sophisticated new barge, constructed by Conrad and utilizing GTT membrane technology, will serve both our Orca class vessels as they are converted to LNG and the Marlins, the world’s first LNG dual fueled container vessels. TOTE is committed to caring for the environment and the communities we serve and this barge will enable us to supply our ships with LNG, a cleaner alternative fuel.”

WesPac and CME plan to exercise further options with Conrad to construct additional LNG barges for other ports in North America, as requirement for 0.1% sulphur cap compliant fuels increases.