Shell deploys third LNG-powered OSV in Gulf

Harvey Liberty 1

The following is the text of a news release from Royal Dutch Shell PLC:

(PORT FOURCHON, La.) — Shell Offshore Inc. on Tuesday marked the delivery of the third liquefied natural gas (LNG) powered offshore supply vessel (OSV) in Port Fourchon, La. Harvey Liberty, chartered from specialist company Harvey Gulf International Marine, will join its sister ships, Harvey Energy and Harvey Power, and support Shell’s deepwater operations in the Gulf of Mexico.

“This is an important milestone for Shell and Harvey Gulf,” said Tahir Faruqui, Shell’s general manager for LNG North America. “The Harvey Liberty highlights our efforts to grow LNG as a fuel in the transport sector, and is a welcome addition to our portfolio.”

Harvey Gulf International Marine’s CEO and chairman, Shane Guidry, said, “Harvey Gulf is excited to share these historical maritime events with Shell. This represents another significant step in the path for Harvey Gulf to establish itself as a leader in utilizing LNG as a marine fuel.”

Harvey Liberty runs on 99 percent LNG fuel and can operate for up to 15 days before refueling. The LNG-powered vessels provide vessel owners an alternative fuel to meet sulfur and nitrogen oxide emissions regulations in the North American Emission Control Area (ECA).

Harvey Liberty is 302 feet long and operates on three dual-fuel Wartsila engines. It will load from Harvey Gulf’s new LNG bunkering facility in Port Fourchon, where it will support Shell’s platforms in the Gulf of Mexico, transporting supplies, equipment, and drilling fluids.

By Professional Mariner Staff