Progress was designed by Crowley’s engineering services group. The 416-foot barge can carry 3.17 million gallons of liquefied natural gas (LNG). The vessel will provide ship operators at the Port of Savannah, Georgia, with access to a cleaner energy source. LNG is the lowest carbon-based fuel currently available for maritime shipping. LNG is reported to have 23 percent less greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions compared to very/ultra-low sulfur fuel oil.

“The Progress LNG bunker barge sets a new standard for quality and capability to serve the energy needs of the shipping industry,” said James C. Fowler, senior vice president and general manager of Crowley Shipping. “LNG offers a safe and reliable solution for ocean carriers that advances the transition to lower emissions. We congratulate the people whose dedication and hard work in designing and building this world-class vessel allowed us to reach this milestone for the U.S. industry and our customers.”

This is the third LNG barge built by Fincantieri Bay Shipbuilding.