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ABS, a provider of classification services to the global marine and offshore industries, has issued its first 'LNG-Ready' approval in accordance with its Guide for LNG Fuel Ready Vessels to a product tanker.

The LNG-Ready Level 1 approval was issued together with an approval in principle for the first vessel in a series built by Aker Philadelphia Shipyard and operated by Crowley Maritime Corporation.

By achieving compliance with the ABS Guide for LNG Fuel Ready Vessels, Crowley has the option to convert the product tankers to LNG propulsion at a later date having already been granted a conceptual review.

"ABS has played a fundamental role in supporting the ambitions of the maritime industry as it moves to embrace the opportunity of LNG as fuel," remarked ABS Chairman, President and CEO Christopher J. Wiernicki. "This milestone builds upon our work to provide owners with the guidance and support they need to move ahead with shipbuilding projects that allow them the flexibility to respond to changes over the lifetime of their vessels."

ABS published the Guide for LNG Fuel Ready Vessels in 2014. The LNG-Ready endorsements allow shipowners and yards the flexibility to limit their initial investment while planning for the future conversion to dual fuel or gas-powered combustion engines.

"A well-thought-out plan can prepare shipowners to face ever-increasing stricter environmental regulations as well as help save time and money by considering basic gas-fuelled ship requirements during the preliminary design and minimizing the potential changes during the future conversion," ABS said in a statement.

"Crowley is proud to be the first company to actually receive this designation from ABS," commented Rob Grune, SVP and general manager petroleum services for Crowley. "As our business continues to shape itself to better meet the requirements of our customers, these vessels that stand ready and able to operate on a cleaner, alternative fuel source are our way of anticipating future demands."

"Working with ABS and Crowley to build the first LNG-Ready product tanker has been a valuable process and has allowed the shipyard to deliver a vessel with the flexibility to evolve in the future," commented Scott Clapham, SVP of Aker Philadelphia Shipyard.