Lloyd’s Register has granted Approval in Principle (AiP) to Samsung Heavy Industries (SHI) for its new generation 174,000 cbm Liquified Natural Gas Carrier (LNGC).

The announcement was made on 19 September at Gastech 2024, taking place in Houston, USA.

Under the agreement, SHI will carry out the design for the LNGC and Lloyd’s Register will provide the review of SHI deliverables and technical advice for further design development. 

With global demand for LNG expected to increase between 25-50% by 2030 and the current vessel orderbook showing a record list of 270 LNG carriers on order - almost 40% of the existing fleet - facilitating the construction of new generation LNG carriers, along with the onward transportation of LNG, is crucial if the industry is to fulfil its supply demands.  

Sung-Gu Park, President – North East Asia, Lloyd’s Register, said: “There is a growing demand for vessels which incorporate innovative technologies that are pivotal for the maritime energy transition.

“This AiP signifies Lloyd’s Register position at the forefront of meeting the maritime sector’s need for innovative design development and approval for LNG carriers.”

Hae Ki Jang , CTO & EVP of SHI, said: “SHI is leading the design and development of LNG carrier technology, which offers enhanced efficiency solutions to our global customers to meet ever increasing shipping demand. Our continued collaboration with Lloyd’s Register will extend the project into further exciting phases of engineering and development.”