Seaspan Energy accredited as first LNG bunkering supplier for Vancouver

The Vancouver Fraser Port Authority has issued its first liquefied natural gas (LNG) bunkering accreditation, with North Vancouver’s Seaspan Energy now authorised to refuel selected ships calling the Port of Vancouver with LNG.

Seaspan is aiming to operate three, 112-m LNG bunkering vessels, Seaspan Garibaldi, Seaspan Lions and Seaspan Baker.

The company said it has been working closely with VFPA and called the project a "multi-year process". Seaspan Energy senior vice president Harly Penner called the accreditation a “very meaningful step” in the company’s move to build an LNG bunkering business in Vancouver.

“Being the first company to receive this LNG bunkering accreditation from the VFPA is a very meaningful step towards the start up of our Vancouver-based LNG bunker hub and I’m proud that Seaspan Energy will be at the forefront of helping to drive the marine industry towards a more sustainable future.”

VFPA said Seaspan’s accreditation makes LNG the first approved "alternative fuel" for ship bunkering or marine fuelling at the port of Vancouver and called its accreditation process "extensive".

The process, according to VFPA, included an assessment of operational procedures for LNG bunkering to ensure safety, efficiency and compliance with regulatory standards, designating suitable specified locations for LNG bunkering, completing risk assessments, evaluating emergency response plans and collaborating with partner agencies, including local fire departments, Canadian Coast Guard and Environment and Climate Change Canada.

As part of the port authority’s robust LNG accreditation programme, Seaspan Energy will be required to renew its licence annually.

"LNG and other fuels safely move through the port every day including various LNG-fuelled deepsea vessels already calling port terminals. In recent years, dual-fuel LNG vessels calling the Port of Vancouver have included tankers, roro ships carrying vehicles, and container and cruise ships," the VFPA said.