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SEA/LNG - a multi-sector coalition that aims to accelerate the widespread adoption of liquefied natural gas (LNG) as a marine fuel - has confirmed the addition of two new partners: the American Bureau of Shipping (ABS) and Keppel Offshore & Marine's Gas Technology Development (GTD).

Commenting on the news, Peter Keller, SEA\LNG chairman, said: "We are pleased to welcome Keppel Offshore & Marine's Gas Technology Development and ABS to SEA\LNG. They add valuable industry expertise and perspective, as SEA\LNG's work to promote the environmental and performance benefits of LNG as a marine transport fuel, moves up a gear."

Keller added: "These two new partners are particularly important as they represent different aspects of the marine LNG value chain and with their input, SEA\LNG offers a comprehensive and expert global perspective."

Keppel Offshore & Marine's Gas Technology Development was set up in 2015, and provides a range of gas solutions. In addition to its LNG research and development capabilities, it has a track record in the conversion of floating storage and regasification units. It is also undertaking the world's first floating liquefaction vessel conversion.

Classification society ABS classed the world's first LNG carrier, the Methane Pioneer, in 1959, and has extensive experience with gas-related assets. It recently announced a joint project to develop an LNG-fuelled dry bulk carrier concept and the first shipment of LNG from Sabine Pass.

In September, Bunker Index reported that ABS classed the world's largest ethane/ethylene-capable liquefied gas carrier, the Navigator Aurora.

ABS chairman, president and CEO, Christopher J. Wiernicki, said: "ABS brings more than 150 years of experience and industry expertise to SEA\LNG. We fully understand future energy demands and the environmental drivers of today's dynamic markets and look forward to working with SEA\LNG to balance those needs with operational safety and performance."

The founding partners of SEA\LNG, which was launched in July this year, are: Carnival Corporation & plc, DNV GL, ENGIE, GE, GTT, Lloyd's Register, Mitsubishi Corporation, NYK Line, Port of Rotterdam, Qatargas, Shell, TOTE Inc. and Wartsila. Since then, Eagle LNG Partners and Keppel Gas Technology have also joined.