The U.S. Coast Guard’s Liquefied Gas Carrier National Center of Expertise (LGC NCOE) in partnership with Det Norske Veritas (DNV) classification society hosted the 4th Annual USCG, Flag State, and Classification Society Surveyor Workshop on February 27 – 29, 2024 in Katy, Texas.
The three-day event focused on providing local Classification Society surveyors and several Flag State Representatives an in-depth understanding of the Coast Guard’s Certificate of Compliance (COC) examination process onboard liquefied gas carriers. This was the first year, where the LGC NCOE introduced alternative fuels into the conversation. This included an in-depth look into the International Gas as Fuel (IGF) Code as well as USCG policies related to vessels using alternative fuels such as hydrogen, ammonia, methanol, and liquefied natural gas (LNG).
Additionally, the workshop afforded opportunities to collaborate and share experience and information on key safety issues, lessons learned, and common deficiencies found on board liquefied gas carriers and alternatively fueled vessels.
“With the continued growth of liquefied gas market in the U.S and the efforts to de-carbonize the Maritime Transportation System, the USCG must continue to rely on partnership and collaboration to ensure regulatory compliance and safety of the liquefied gas carriers and alternatively fueled vessels” said LCDR Jason Ryu, Commanding Officer of the Liquefied Gas Carrier NCOE.
The Liquefied Gas Carrier National Center of Expertise aims to support industry and USCG by promoting and facilitating technical regulatory expertise and training on liquefied gas carriers and alternative fuels.
The LGC NCOE is one of six nationwide national centers of expertise focusing on providing industry specific consultation and services to the Coast Guard and maritime industry. The LGC NCOE provides technical advice on matters related to liquefied gas in the maritime community; liquefied gas training and outreach opportunities; liquefied gas workforce forecasting and performance development; and technical expertise for the establishment of local and national liquefied gas guidance, policy and regulations.
For more information on the LGC NCOE and upcoming events, visit their website USCG Liquefied Gas Carrier National Center of Expertise.