Americas News
WesPac and Clean Marine Energy to Build LNG Bunker Barge for TOTE
U.S-based WesPac Midstream LLC, along with its affiliate Clean Marine Energy LLC (CME), has announced that it has signed a deal to build a liquefied natural gas (LNG) bunker barge for ship operator Totem Ocean Trailer Express (TOTE), LNG Industry reports.
According to Wespac, the ship will be North America's first LNG bunker barge for the marine market.
"A comprehensive LNG supply and distribution network for the marine market in North America is critical for the shipping industry," said CEO Pace Ralli 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."
The ship will initially be deployed at Tacoma to service TOTE's RoRo vessels, and will eventually move to serve the company's marlin-class vessels in the Port of Jacksonville.
Wespac said that with the implementation of stricter Emission Control Area (ECA) sulfur regulations, the company expects to order additional LNG barges to serve other ports in North America.
"The initial bunker barge for TOTE is part of the WesPac/CME plan to provide an integrated LNG solution for engine conversion, infrastructure, supply and delivery of logistics to the shipping industry," said the company.
The ship will be constructed by Conrad Orange Shipyard, Inc. and is slated for delivery in early 2016.
It was reported early this year that TOTE had signed definitive long-term agreements with both Wespac and Pivotal LNG, Inc to supply two containerships with LNG.
