Federal Maritime Commissioner leads discussion for Port stakeholders on growing use of LNG for ship propulsion to meet international emission standards set to take effect in 2020
Port Canaveral, FL –- Port Canaveral hosted a briefing led by Federal Maritime Commissioner William Doyle regarding the use of liquefied natural gas (LNG) as a maritime transportation fuel. Natural gas, and its consideration for use as a primary fuel for ship propulsion, is quickly gaining momentum in the maritime industry to help meet global environmental standards scheduled to take effect January 1, 2020. The new regulations, established by the International Maritime Organization (IMO), set strict limits for global sulfur content of shipboard fuel oil. "We know that natural gas is one of the cleanest, most environmentally-friendly fuels available today," said Port CEO Capt. John Murray. "We wanted better understanding of LNG as a maritime fuel, as well as best practices globally to support vessels powered with natural gas."
FMC Commissioner Doyle provided a briefing on the most recent international regulatory activity and the IMO's 10-year effort to develop the international standards that will eliminate pollutants emitted by marine engines. Attendees at the discussion included Port Canaveral leadership, staff, Port partners and tenants, representatives of the U.S. Coast Guard, Brevard County Sheriff's, Canaveral Fire Rescue, and Canaveral Pilots Association.
The International Maritime Organization (IMO) is a United Nations agency that develops international regulations pertaining to worldwide shipping. The United States has been a member of the IMO since 1950, and there are currently 173 member states.
FMC Commissioner Doyle has spoken extensively in support for natural gas as a marine fuel, especially with regard to meeting international environmental standards. He's been a vocal proponent of the development of U.S. natural gas resources and its impact on the U.S. energy and transportation landscape in helping to improve U.S. energy security while spurring economic development and job creation around the country.
