---

A memorandum of understanding (MoU) has been signed between DNV GL and Qatar shipyard Nakilat-Keppel Offshore & Marine (N-KOM) that is designed to promote liquefied natural gas (LNG) as fuel within the maritime and offshore industry.

The signing ceremony took place during DNV GL’s 150th anniversary celebrations in Dubai, at which N-KOM's CEO Chandru Rajwani and Dr Henrik Madsen, DNV GL’s Group President and Chief Executive Officer, signed the memorandum.

"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 will capitalize on DNV GL’s deep competence and long-standing experience in LNG, working with shipyards, shipowners and other key stakeholders on a global basis to develop synergies related to the promotion of LNG as fuel within the maritime and offshore industry," DNV GL said in a statement.

"Qatar is the single largest producer and exporter of liquefied natural gas in the world and has become a leading cluster for gas related [sic] 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," commented Dr Henrik Madsen.

Mr Chandru Rajwani 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."

As part of the agreement, DNV GL and N-KOM are to cooperate on the development and newbuilding of bunker barges, of coolant barges for temporary gas storage as well as to promote the use of LNG as fuel in the offshore sector. Moreover, a training programme is to be conducted in the N-KOM facility on LNG carrier or LNG-fuelled vessel repairs. Finally, both partners will offer project management support for conversion projects to third party yards.