TOTE to convert two ORCA-class shipts to LNG
Totem Ocean Trailer Express (TOTE) has received a permit providing a conditional waiver from the current Emissions Control Area (ECA) fuel sulfur content requirements of MARPOL Annex VI regulation 14.4 while TOTE pursues conversion of its vessels to alternative fuels, the Company press release said. This permit is the product of a public-private partnership among TOTE, the United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the U.S. Coast Guard (USCG). It will enable TOTE to develop and convert its two ORCA-class vessels, already the “greenest” ships in the U.S. domestic fleet, to the use of Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG) as their primary fuel source.
Conversion to LNG assures long-term access to lower-cost sources of energy, enabling TOTE to provide economical service to the people of Alaska for many years to come. This project is consistent with TOTE’s core philosophies that reflect a deep commitment to the environment and to the communities it serves. TOTE is proud to once again be seen as a leader in the U.S. maritime industry.
This permit alleviates our previously expressed concerns regarding significantly increased fuel costs due to the North American ECA. We thank you for your patience and continued support.