Crowley Launches American Energy to Transport U.S.-Sourced LNG to Puerto Rico
Crowley has proudly raised the U.S. flag on the American Energy, marking the commencement of operations of the first domestic liquefied natural gas (LNG) carrier dedicated to transporting U.S.-sourced natural gas to Puerto Rico.
Through a multi-year agreement with Naturgy, Crowley will deliver U.S. mainland-sourced LNG to Naturgy’s operational facility in Penuelas, Puerto Rico on a regular basis. This partnership aims to provide Puerto Rico with increased access to a reliable supply of U.S.-produced LNG, addressing the island’s ongoing power demands.
The American Energy, a Crowley-owned carrier with a capacity of 130,400 cubic meters (34.4 million gallons) per voyage, will operate in compliance with the U.S. Coast Guard Authorization Act of 1996. The vessel, measuring 900 feet in length (274 meters), holds a CAP 1 rating, ensuring top safety standards, vessel condition, and regulatory compliance.
Each delivery of LNG aboard the American Energy at full capacity can power 80,000 homes for a year. The vessel will be manned by U.S. mariners and will provide regular service from the U.S. Gulf Coast to Puerto Rico.
Benefiting Puerto Rico’s Energy Grid
“The entry into service of American Energy marks a significant milestone for fuel supply reliability in Puerto Rico’s energy grid, greatly benefiting our people. This partnership is an initiative to increase access to a U.S.-based LNG source, expanding our options for stabilizing our energy grid and providing residents and businesses with a more consistently reliable power generation source,” stated Jenniffer González-Colón, Puerto Rico Governor.
In addition to the American Energy, Crowley operates the full-service marine Isla Grande cargo terminal in San Juan for its container and roll-on/roll-off vessels, including two LNG-fueled ships and logistics services. The company delivers over 94 million gallons of LNG annually through its LNG Loading Terminal in Penuelas, utilizing ocean delivery and land transportation with ISO tank containers.
Commitment to U.S. LNG Availability
Tom Crowley, chairman and CEO of Crowley Corporation, expressed pride in expanding U.S. LNG availability in Puerto Rico in partnership with Naturgy. He emphasized LNG as an ample, reliable energy source from the U.S., providing a resilient and lower-emission option for meeting Puerto Rico’s growing power needs. Crowley’s efforts not only support American jobs and energy production but also contribute to U.S. national security.
With the launch of American Energy and the ongoing commitment to LNG delivery in Puerto Rico, Crowley continues to play a vital role in enhancing energy infrastructure and sustainability on the island.