Harvey Gulf Becomes First U.S. Operator to Construct LNG Vessel
Harvey Gulf International Marine became the first U.S. vessel operator to contract for construction of vessels capable of operating exclusively on natural gas.
In addition to being powered by cleaner burning natural gas, the vessels will achieve “ENVIRO+, Green Passport” Certification by the ABS. The requirements for this certification include, among others, that the vessels be continuously manned with a certified Environmental Officer, be completely constructed with certified environmentally friendly materials, and have advanced alarms for fuel tanks and containment systems. Along with Harvey Gulf’s other vessels under construction, they will be the first OSV’s to achieve this certification, making them the most environmental friendly OSV’s in Gulf of Mexico.
Harvey Gulf continues its commitment to environmental protection by becoming the first to build U.S.A. flagged vessel that can run entirely on natural gas. These vessels will meet the highest emissions standards that exist today and even higher standards that haven’t been created yet. Harvey Gulf recognizes the strong stance on environmental protection by the administration in the wake of the oil spill and are doing our part to respond to it and provide our customers support for their environmental commitments.
LNG Facility
Harvey Gulf International Marine is currently constructing the first LNG marine fueling facility in the United States to be located at its vessel facility in Port Fourchon, LA. The fueling facility will be a vital addition to the growing national LNG supply infrastructure, supporting critical operations of the oil and gas industry’s offshore support vessel fleet operating on clean burning LNG.
To support the development of the LNG fueling facility, Harvey Gulf has secured CH·IV International of Houston, Texas as the EPC contractor. The facility will consist of two sites each having 270,000 gallons of LNG storage capacity. The tanks will be stainless steel Type ‘C’ pressure vessels with vacuum insulation and carbon steel exteriors. Each facility will be able to transfer 500 gallons of LNG per minute. Aside from the facilities primary role of supporting the Oil and Gas Industry, the facility will be capable of supporting over-the-road vehicles that operate on LNG.
Expanding on its commitment to safety and security of vessel operations and port facilities, Harvey Gulf has actively enlisted the expertise of the USCG to participate at all levels of the development of this facility.