Exmar has obtained Approval in Principle (AiP) from Bureau Veritas Marine & Offshore for a novel concept involving the conversion of existing membrane-type LNG carriers into Floating Liquefied Natural Gas (FLNG) units. This approval signifies that the proposed design meets the necessary safety and technical standards for such a complex transformation.
The concept focuses on repurposing older LNG carriers, providing a cost-effective and potentially faster solution for developing offshore gas fields compared to building new FLNG vessels from scratch. By converting existing assets, Exmar aims to offer a flexible option for gas monetization projects globally.
For freight forwarders and logistics professionals, this development indicates a potential shift in the utilization of certain LNG carrier segments. While not directly impacting container or dry bulk rates, it highlights innovation in the specialized gas shipping sector. Should this conversion concept gain traction, it could influence the availability of older LNG vessels in the charter market, potentially freeing up capacity or creating new demands for specialized project cargo logistics related to the conversion process itself. It also underscores the industry's drive towards more sustainable and efficient use of existing maritime assets.
Exmar plans to further develop this concept, potentially leading to specific projects for offshore gas field operators seeking efficient FLNG solutions.
