SeaRiver Names New US-flag Tanker
Eagle Bay, the second of two new U.S.-flag crude oil tankers for Exxon Mobil Corporation’s marine affiliate SeaRiver Maritime, Inc., was named at a ceremony at Aker Philadelphia Shipyard.
The first-in-class vessel constructed at the shipyard incorporates the latest safety, navigation and engine room technologies and will begin supplying crude oil from Alaska North Slope to refineries along the U.S. west coast later this year. The double hull Eagle Bay is 820-feet long and has capacity to carry 800,000 barrels of oil.
SeaRiver Maritime said its contract with Aker for two tankers, valued at $400 million, delivered an economic boost to the greater Philadelphia region where it generated employment and millions of dollars in revenue. When placed into service, the new tankers’ economic contributions will extend across the United States to Alaska, California and Washington as they begin to support oil production and refining operations. They will replace two existing double hull tankers.
“This project has had a significant economic impact, creating more than 1,200 jobs and generating millions of dollars in revenue for the city of Philadelphia, the commonwealth of Pennsylvania and beyond,” said Andy Madden, vice president of ExxonMobil Supply & Transportation Company. “What we celebrate today is a reminder of what America’s energy industry can do and is doing – investing in our country. Expanding supplies of affordable, reliable energy has been a major contributor to our economy, creating jobs and helping meet our government’s fiscal challenges.”
Madden highlighted the key role Pennsylvania is playing in the nation’s energy and manufacturing renaissance.
“Pennsylvania has led the way in the development of the shale gas industry, which is powering the American economy,” said Madden. “The state is benefiting from increased demand for steel and other products that support oil and gas development as well as new manufacturing industries made possible by abundant supplies of affordable energy.”
In addition to double hulls for all cargo and fuel tanks, the Eagle Bay is equipped with leading technology for key systems, including main engine components and controls as well as fuel, lube oil and electrical systems to deliver energy efficiencies and better performance. SeaRiver Maritime consulted with independent specialists to complete an extensive evaluation of the vessel’s design, adhering to the same methodology used by the aerospace industry and the U.S. Department of Defense. The ship’s main engine and auxiliary systems will be energy efficient and generate lower air emissions than required by regulatory standards.
