Seattle-based Jensen Maritime, a subsidiary of Crowley
Maritime, said August 19 that it has developed two new liquefied natural gas
bunker barge concepts that are fully customizable to meet customers’ needs.
The first concept involves outfitting an existing barge
with an above-deck LNG tank. The concept can be further modified, according to
Jensen, to accommodate more than one type of product, if a customer has a need
for multiple liquid transfers.
The company says advantages of this design include a fast
turnaround and a reduced need to invest in specialized assets if a customer has
short-term LNG requirements.
The second concept is for a purpose-built, new bunker
barge. The design features an LNG tank nestled inside the barge and also has
the latest safety features and efficiencies.
“We understand
that customers have very different needs when it comes to LNG,” company Vice President Johan Sperling said. “Whether LNG is required for the
long or short term, or in larger or smaller quantities, Jensen has a bunkering
solution.”
Bunker barges are seen by Jensen and Crowley as an
innovative solution for the maritime industry, which is currently struggling
with the decision over which to develop first – LNG infrastructure or
vessels.
“These barges
are an ideal resource for those who have LNG needs at ports not located near an
LNG terminal or as an alternative to over-the-road transportation,” the company said in a news release.
An artist rendering of the vessel designs is available at Crowley’s website.
