ABS to Class Singapore’s First LNG Bunkering Vessel
Classification society American Bureau of Shipping (ABS) said September 17 it has been selected by FueLNG, a joint venture between Keppel Offshore & Marine (Keppel O&M) and Shell Eastern Petroleum, to class Singapore’s first LNG bunker barge. The vessel is scheduled to begin construction in January 2019.
“This project is an important milestone for the region and is a key component of Singapore’s strategy to become the world’s largest bunkering port,” said ABS vice president Global Gas Solutions, Patrick Janssens. “LNG as fuel has become an increasingly popular option for many shipowners looking to comply with environmental requirements and gain new operational efficiencies. Projects like this are critical to help expand the LNG supply chain and advance adoption of LNG as fuel.”
The LNG bunker barge, with 7,500m3 capacity, will be owned and operated by FueLNG. The vessel will be based in the Port of Singapore and will supply LNG fuel to large ocean-going LNG-fuelled vessels throughout the region. FueLNG will receive a grant of up to S$3mn ($2.25mn) as part of the Maritime and Port Authority of Singapore's (MPA) LNG bunkering pilot programme. MPA announced the award of S$3mn grant June 4 each to FueLNG and Pavilion Gas.
Last year, ABS published its Guide for LNG Bunkering which sets out standards for LNG bunkering systems fitted to vessels intended for ship-to-ship LNG transfer. The Guide also addresses bunkering station safety, lifting and hose handling equipment, control, monitoring and emergency shutdown safety systems, and emergency release systems.