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The American Bureau of Shipping (ABS), a provider of classification and technical services to the marine and offshore industries, has been selected by Q-LNG, LLC to class its articulated tug barge (ATB) for LNG bunkering in North America.

As previously reported by Bunker Index, the LNG bunker barge, with the capacity to carry up to 4,000 cubic metres, will be owned and constructed by Q-LNG while the operations will be handled by New Orleans-based Harvey Gulf International Marine.

The barge is to be chartered by bunker supplier Shell and used to supply LNG fuel to cruise vessels throughout the south-east coast of the United States.

The vessel is scheduled to begin construction at VT Halter Marine in Pascagoula, Mississippi, in early 2018.

"This project represents another significant milestone for the region in the continued development of LNG infrastructure in North America, helping the maritime industry meet stricter emissions requirements," commented ABS chairman, president and CEO Christopher J. Wiernicki.

"We chose ABS as our class partner for this project because of their extensive understanding of LNG as fuel and LNG bunkering applications," remarked Q-LNG Transport President Chad Verret. "This project will expand the LNG supply chain and play a critical role in the advancement of LNG as a marine fuel throughout the region and North America."

ABS is also classing the LNG bunkering barge for North America that is currently being built at Conrad Orange Shipyard and is scheduled for delivery in 2018.

Recognizing the changing landscape and increased industry focus on gas, ABS launched its Global Gas Solutions team in 2013 to support industry in developing gas-related projects. The team provides offers guidance in LNG floating structures and systems, gas fuel systems and equipment, gas carriers, and regulatory and statutory requirements.