Crowley launches LNG carrier to deliver LNG to Puerto Rico

The US – based marine and energy company, Crowley, has dispatched a liquefied natural gas (LNG) carrier to transport LNG to the energy company Naturgy in Puerto Rico.

Crowley, headquartered in Florida, claims that its American Energy carrier is the first US vessel to transport LNG to Puerto Rico. It has the capacity to carry 130,400 cubic metres of natural gas per trip.

The new vessel has received a CAP 1 rating, which attests to its safety and compliance.

Jenniffer González – Colón, the governor of Puerto Rico, described this development as a significant stride towards enhancing fuel reliability in Puerto Rico.

She said, “This partnership is an initiative that utilises existing regulations to increase access to a US – based LNG source, thereby expanding our options for stabilising the energy grid.”

Crowley processes over 94 million gallons of LNG annually at its LNG terminal in Peñuelas, Puerto Rico. It also offers ocean delivery and land transportation services using ISO tank containers.

According to the US Energy Information Administration (EIA), North America’s LNG export capacity is expected to more than double between 2024 and 2028. It is projected to increase from 11.4 billion cubic feet per day (Bcf/d) in 2023 to 24.4 Bcf/d in 2028, provided that the projects under construction are commissioned as planned.