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Fuel economic Natural gas is a cheaper, cleaner alternative to diesel, where it can be supplied.
Environmentally safe. Natural gas dissipates into the atmosphere quickly and safely when released.
Reduces engine wear and maintenance. Natural gas is clean. Engine overhauls can be significantly extended, i.e. where once you considered an overhaul at 14,000 hours you can now extend the interval to 50,000 running hours. Maintenance costs are reduced as a result of the fact that there is less wear on moving parts.
Natural gas storage bottles can be retro-fitted to an existing vessel. M.D.A. Marine Design Associates Ltd. was the first Company in Canada (and probably the world) to have obtained regulatory permission to apply the system to a passenger-carrying vessel.
Natural gas storage bottles can now be installed under deck. The Company received approval in Principle in April 1998 from Lloyds Register of Shipping to apply this technology below the main deck of a passenger-carrying vessel. This endorsement of the technology is very relevant, advantageous, and a milestone in marine progression. This approval for underdeck storage had previously been accorded by Transport Canada, Ship Safety Branch on a domestic vessel.
Refueling of natural gas is quick and safe. A vessel refuels from a shoreside fueling facility via hoses with break away connection which couples to the ships fill line. Any possible leakage would safely vent to the atmosphere.