MEBA Signs LNG Crewing Agreement with Excelerate Energy
The Marine Engineers' Beneficial
Association (MEBA) has signed a Memorandum of
Understanding with innovative LNG importer Excelerate Energy to utilize
U.S.- citizen deck and engineering officers onboard Excelerate's liquefied
natural gas (LNG) carriers.
The issue of Americans onboard LNG vessels has been the focus of
congressional and administrative oversight over the last few years. The
House Homeland Security Committee scheduled a hearing on March 21st to
address this issue. President Davis was asked to testify on the issue of
securing LNG tankers. The Maritime Administration, under the lead of
Administrator Sean Connaughton, has also moved forward on the issue as
well, working with Excelerate and other LNG operators.
The agreement provides for the opening of Excelerate's LNG tankers and
terminals to MEBA deck and engine officers in order to obtain LNG recency
certifications for loading and discharging LNG. Once recertified, these
officers will join Excelerate's international fleet of LNG vessels.
