MARAD, TOTE to advance studies on LNG conversion

The Maritime Administration (MARAD) has revealed a $900,000 cooperative agreement with Totem Ocean Trailer Express (TOTE) to further develop knowledge regarding the costs and benefits of vessel conversions to LNG propulsion.

Tote intends to convert the containership MV Midnight Sun to operate on LNG and will work with MARAD to obtain pre and post-conversion air emissions data, and operational information to assist maritime stakeholders in assessing the potential of LNG conversions, MARAD said in a statement.

The demonstration project on the use of LNG for containership propulsion is a part of an ongoing program to promote increased use of alternative fuels and technology in the maritime industry.

The MV Midnight Sun is a Roll-on/Roll-off (RO/RO) cargo ship, which provides round-trip shipping service between the Port of Tacoma, Washington and the Port of Anchorage, Alaska.

The study is expected to be completed by 2018.

Image: TOTE