Shell Deploys Third LNG-Powered Supply Vessel in Gulf of Mexico

Shell Offshore announced the delivery of the third LNG-powered offshore supply vessel (OSV) in Port Fourchon, Louisiana. The Harvey Liberty, chartered from specialist company Harvey Gulf International Marine, will join her sister ships, the Harvey Energy and Harvey Power, and support Shell’s deep-water operations in the Gulf of Mexico.

“This is an important milestone for Shell and Harvey Gulf,” said Tahir Faruqui, Shell’s General Manager LNG North America. “The ‘Harvey Liberty’ highlights our efforts to grow LNG as a fuel in the transport sector, and is a welcome addition to our portfolio.”

The Harvey Liberty runs on 99 percent LNG fuel and can operate for up to 15 days before refueling. The LNG powered vessels provide vessel owners an alternative fuel to meet sulphur and nitrogen oxide emissions regulations in the North American Emission Control Area (ECA).

The Harvey Liberty is 302 feet long and operates on three dual-fuel Wärtsilä engines. It will load from Harvey Gulf’s new LNG bunkering facility in Port Fourchon, Louisiana where it will support Shell’s platforms in the Gulf of Mexico, transporting supplies, equipment, and drilling fluids.