US-based gas company Stabilis Solutions has signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with the Galveston Wharves at the Port of Galveston in Texas.
The companies have agreed to support the use of LNG as a marine fuel at the port and deliver LNG fuelling solutions to marine ships calling on the port.
Other activities covered by the MoU include recognising suitable dock space for shore-to-ship fuelling operations, obtaining required permits, identifying and educating potential clients and conducting LNG fuelling events.
Stabilis will provide its current fleet of mobile cryogenic assets, including LNG transportation and distribution equipment, for these operations.
For backing LNG fuelling operations, the company will also contribute LNG from its liquefaction centres in Texas and Louisiana.
LNG bunkering services are expected to be available at the port later this year.
Stabilis president and CEO Jim Reddinger said: “The use of LNG as a marine fuel is critical for marine operators to reduce their emissions profile, and Stabilis is building a North American network of LNG bunkering locations to provide this critical service to our marine customers.
“The Port of Galveston is the second LNG marine fuelling location, along with the Port of Corpus Christi, that Stabilis will operate on the Gulf Coast.”
Through this partnership, the two companies aim to attract more LNG-powered vessels and encourage more companies to convert their vessels to LNG fuel.
Port of Galveston director and CEO Rodger Rees said: “The Galveston Wharves views LNG fuelling of marine vessels as an important step in our commitment to environmental stewardship.
“And with the number of LNG-fuelled vessels in the global fleet growing rapidly, having LNG fuelling services in the port is also an important step in our commercial growth.”
The Port of Galveston is said to be one of Texas’ busiest ports, having handled 4.3 million tonnes of cargo last year.
