By
Rebecca Gibson |
Lloyd’s Register is to class BC Ferries’ three new, CAD 165 million intermediate-class vessels.
As the first dual-fuel vessels in BC Ferries’ fleet, the newbuilds will be able to operate on either LNG or diesel fuel, which will significantly reduce environmental emissions. In addition, using LNG will decrease fuel costs, which will reduce the need for rising passenger fares.
LR will survey each ferry during the construction process to ensure they are compliant with the necessary regulations and will continue to check the vessels at regular intervals throughout their operational lives. In addition, LR will provide risk management and LNG consulting services to ensure that the bunkering and LNG operations are carried out safely.
“The outlook is good for LNG in Canada – there is availability of Canadian gas at highly competitive prices, so commercially this is looking like a smart decision for BC Ferries,” said Bud Streeter, president of LR Canada. “Our job was, and will be, to help ensure safety and reliability in the design, build and the bunkering and operation of these ships. Passengers are the most valuable cargo so we will endeavour to contribute to the safe operation of these ships. LNG can provide significant environmental benefits and, as BC Ferries is well aware, safety comes first.’’
Due to be constructed at the Remontowa Shipyard in Poland, the 105 m vessels will each cater for 145 vehicles and up to 600 passengers and crew. One of the newbuilds will replace the 49-year old Queen of Burnaby on the route between Comox and Powell River, while another will replace the 50-year old Queen of Nanaimo, which services the Tsawwassen – Southern Gulf Islands route. The third vessel will sail during the peak season on the Southern Gulf Islands route and provide refit relief across the fleet.
BC Ferries’ first new vessel is scheduled to be delivered in August 2016, while the second and third are due for delivery in October 2016 and February 2017 respectively