Americas News
ABS Forms LNG, LPG Support Team
Maritime classification services firm ABS says it has formed a new team to focus on market needs surrounding liquefied natural gas (LNG) and liquefied petroleum gas (LPG).
The ABS Global Gas Solutions Team will work with ship owners, shipyards, and equipment manufacturers to provide a range of services.
"The discovery of new gas resources around the world and the exciting potential for wide-scale adoption of gas as a marine fuel are leading to a dynamic shift in the global marketplace," said ABS Chairman and CEO Christopher J. Wiernicki.
"This team will comprise highly experienced technical professionals that will provide support throughout a project's lifecycle to meet the specific needs of our marine, inland waterways and offshore energy clients."
Patrick Janssens, the company's current vice president for LNG, will lead the new group as vice president for global gas solutions.
Janssens previously worked as senior vice president of technology at FLEX LNG, helping to develop floating liquefaction projects, and as chief technology officer at Exmar, developing LNG regasification vessels.
"Patrick is a recognized industry leader in all areas of LNG," Wiernicki said.
"His experience in economic and concept evaluation, project construction and operational analysis makes him the right choice to lead this team."
Janssens said the growing U.S. gas market will be an important focus for the team.
"With its diverse maritime market, increasing gas production and stricter emissions requirements, the US is becoming a catalyst for the next revolution in the global gas marketplace," he said.
"To help clients navigate the unique characteristics and requirements of the US, our team of professionals brings together both the technical and market experience to help owners, shipyards and manufacturers successfully develop gas projects."
Roy Bleiberg, director of engineering for ABS Americas, will be the director of US Gas Development, and Assistant Chief Surveyor Kurt Larsen will be the director of US Gas Operations and Performance.
A US-based team of ABS gas specialists will work with Bleiberg and Larsen, helping clients with the development of LNG technology, risk assessments, and other projects.
The growing development of gas resources in the U.S. has led to a number of new developments, including the creation of the nation's first LNG bunkering facility, which is scheduled to open in February 2014.
