The world’s first combined LNG/LPG/ethylene carrier was officially named on 15 November. Built by Shenghui Gas & Chemical Systems, the multi-gas vessel is due to be delivered by early January 2010 to its owner Singco Gas, a joint venture between Norway’s IM Skaugen Marine Services and GATX Corp of the US.

The innovative carrier was built in response to rising demand for the transport of clean energy fuels at a time of heightened concerns over greenhouse gas emissions. Named Norgas Innovation, the ship’s hull was built by Taizhou Wuzhou Shipbuilding Industry in Zhejiang province.

Its cargo system was built and installed by Shenghui Gas & Chemical Systems, based in Zhangjiagang in Jiangsu province. It will be capable of carrying two grades of segregated gases simultaneously, cooled and un-cooled, with a liquefaction system for LNG. The carrier is 137 metres long, 19.8 metres wide, has a maximum depth of 11.50 metres, and a capacity of 10,000 cubic metres.