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Washington State Ferries (WSF) is collaborating with DNV to explore the possibility of running its vessels on liquefied natural gas (LNG).

Commenting on the fleet's fuel expenses, Washington State Department of Transportation (WSDOT) Assistant Secretary David Moseley, said: "WSF burns more than 17 million gallons of ultra-low sulphur diesel each year - and it’s our fastest growing operating expense. LNG has the potential to significantly reduce emissions and the cost of fuel.

DNV has extensive experience of LNG-fuelled ships and the infrastructure they demand. 35 out of 37 LNG fueled vessels in the world, including the very first in 2000, have been built to DNV’s standards. Of these, 16 are car/passenger ferries.

"As the biggest ferry operator in the US, and the third biggest in the world, WSF can really lead the way for its industry. In DNV, we can now clearly see a tipping point when it comes to global interest in LNG-fuelled ships. Knowing that LNG as a fuel helps reduce emissions and costs, our team of researchers, engineers, and business analysts are looking forward to assist WSF and other companies with managing risks related to their LNG operations,” said Kenneth Vareide, Director of DNV’s maritime operations in North America.

"I am pleased to have DNV aboard to assist Washington State Ferries in this important look at liquefied natural gas a possible fuel for the fleet, and look forward to these next steps that WSF will take with DNV," added Moseley.