MoU to promote the use of LNG

DNV GL sais that the MoU will further strengthen the position of N-KOM, which is a joint-venture between Qatar Gas Transport Company (Nakilat) and Keppel Offshore & Marine, in the areas of LNG-fuelled vessel conversions and construction of related floating assets.

N-KOM meanwhile said it will capitalise on DNV GL’s competence and long-standing experience in LNG, working with shipyards, shipowners and other stakeholders to develop synergies related to the promotion of LNG as fuel.

Chandru Rajwani, CEO, N-KOM, said: “N-KOM has already established itself as a leading destination for gas carrier repairs in the region. With the signing of this MOU, we take a significant step further in becoming the preferred gas solutions provider on a global scale. Through mutually sharing our knowledge on latest technology, environmental, safety and quality issues with DNV GL, we will be able to offer our customers an even wider range of solutions and facilities for liquefied natural gas as marine fuel and other gas solutions.”

“Qatar is the single largest producer and exporter of liquefied natural gas in the world and has become a leading cluster for gas related activities. Therefore, we look forward to establishing a valuable partnership with N-KOM, which further cements our strong market position on LNG as fuel in this region and benefits the environment by making the shipping industry greener,” said Dr Henrik Madsen, DNV GL president and CEO.

Under the MOU, DNV GL and N-KOM will co-operate on development and building of bunker barges and coolant barges for temporary gas storage, and promote the use of LNG as fuel in the offshore sector.

A training programme is to be conducted at N-KOM on LNG carrier or LNG-fuelled vessel repairs, while both partners will offer project management support for conversion projects to third party yards.

The agreement was signed by both parties at DNV GL’s recent 150th anniversary celebrations in Dubai.