Tote begins its Orca vessel conversion to LNG
When completed, the conversion will enable the ships to operate fully on LNG and drastically reduce air emissions from the operator’s Alaska ships, virtually eliminating sulphur oxides (SOx) and particulate matter while drastically reducing nitrogen oxides (NOx) and carbon dioxide.
“We are excited to be the first shipping company in the United States to undertake this important environmental effort,” said Mike Noone, President of TOTE Maritime Alaska.
“And we are appreciative of our customers and partners who support our ongoing effort to innovate in ways that reflect our commitment to the environment and communities we serve.”
Healthier environment
Mr Noone added that reduced emissions will result in a healthier environment for Tacoma, WA, Puget Sound and Anchorage, AK, the communities in which Tote Maritime operates.
The operator’s North Star vessel has recently completed its first voyage to Anchorage following its outfit with two LNG tanks located immediately behind the ship’s bridge.
In addition to the LNG tanks and accompanying infrastructure, the ship received critical engine updates necessary to utilise LNG as a fuel and underwent a standard regulatory dry-dock.
Over the next four years, three more conversion periods will be required to finalise the transition of both vessels.
Each conversion period will take place in the winter to minimise the impact to customers and consumers alike. The conversion of both ships is scheduled to be complete in the first quarter of 2021.
