Exxon Mobil Corp.’s technology expertise in LNG has resulted in an industry breakthrough in carrier design and size, enabling the more efficient transport of natural gas to markets throughout the world. The recent completion of the world’s first Q-Max LNG carrier, named “Mozah”, marks a step change in LNG shipping by reducing transportation cost, while improving energy efficiency and reducing emissions. The Q-Max ships carry up to 80% more cargo, yet require approximately 40% less energy per unit of cargo than conventional LNG carriers due to economies of scale and efficiency of the engines. The large LNG ship technologies, developed in conjunction with joint venture partner Qatar Petroleum, include a number of industry breakthroughs and significant enhancements, including increased ship size, onboard reliquefaction units, slow-speed diesel engines, twin propellers and rudders, largest ship-board LNG tanks ever built, the latest in hull antifouling protection and improved fire-protection systems. The end result of these new generation ships is a 20-30% reduction in transportation cost.
