The NM 'FA Gauthier', which is to be the first ferry to run on liquefied natural gas (LNG) in North America – and the first ship of any kind to run on LNG in Canada – has just been commissioned by the Société des traversiers du Québec. The use of liquefied natural gas makes it possible to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by up to 25 per cent, when compared with marine diesel and it almost completely eliminates fine particle emissions and other air pollutants. LNG motors are also quieter and produce less vibration, which is more respectful of marine life.
Natural gas becomes liquid when it is cooled to -162 °C. LNG takes up 600 times less space than its gaseous state, which is a very significant advantage for storage and transport by tanker truck or by ship. Originally used to meet strong energy demand during peak periods, today LNG is used as a cleaner fuel.
LNG motors are a proven technology that have been widely used for many years in road and maritime transport worldwide, particularly in Europe. "It's extraordinary that this major first is happening here in Québec, and Gaz Métro is very proud to be a part of it," said Martin Imbleau, Vice President, Development and Renewable Energies at Gaz Métro, the company's official supplier of LNG. "In support of Québec's Maritime Strategy, LNG is a concrete solution for fighting climate change and allows local shipowners to comply with the increasingly stringent standards regarding polluting emissions on North America's waterways."
