Crowley has officially raised the U.S. flag on American Energy, marking the beginning of operations for the first domestic liquefied natural gas (LNG) carrier to transport U.S.-sourced natural gas to Puerto Rico. This historic milestone represents a crucial step in improving the island’s energy reliability, addressing ongoing power demands, and strengthening its connection to U.S. energy resources.
Under a new multi-year agreement, Crowley and Naturgy will ensure regular deliveries of LNG from the U.S. mainland to Naturgy’s operating facility in Penuelas, Puerto Rico. The American Energy, a 900-foot-long LNG carrier with a capacity of 130,400 cubic meters (34.4 million gallons) per voyage, will now provide Puerto Rico with a consistent and stable fuel supply. The vessel, which operates in compliance with the U.S. Coast Guard Authorization Act of 1996, has received a CAP 1 rating, the highest classification for safety and vessel condition.
Puerto Rico Governor Jenniffer González-Colón praised the development, emphasizing its significance in stabilizing the island’s energy grid. She highlighted the importance of expanding access to U.S.-based LNG sources as part of efforts to provide residents and businesses with a more reliable and sustainable power generation system. The governor’s remarks reflect a broader strategy aimed at improving Puerto Rico’s long-term energy security while making use of existing regulations to integrate domestic fuel sources.
Crowley’s commitment to Puerto Rico spans over 70 years, and the addition of American Energy strengthens the company’s role in the region’s energy supply chain. The company already operates the Isla Grande cargo terminal in San Juan, which supports container and roll-on/roll-off vessels, including two LNG-powered ships. Additionally, Crowley delivers more than 94 million gallons of LNG annually through its LNG Loading Terminal in Penuelas and provides ocean delivery and land transportation using ISO tank containers.
Each voyage of American Energy carries enough LNG to power approximately 80,000 homes for a year, offering a cleaner alternative to traditional fuels like diesel. LNG emits fewer greenhouse gases than conventional energy sources, making it a more sustainable option for Puerto Rico’s evolving energy landscape. Crowley CEO Tom Crowley underscored the significance of this transition, emphasizing LNG’s role as a reliable, lower-emission energy source that enhances U.S. energy production while supporting American jobs and national security.
Naturgy’s General Manager of Supply and Wholesale Markets, Jon Ganuza, echoed this sentiment, stating that the new partnership strengthens the company’s presence in the global LNG market and establishes a stable, competitive supply route for Puerto Rico. The American Energy will be crewed by U.S. mariners, maintaining a strong Jones Act connection between Puerto Rico and the mainland.
Leaders from the American Maritime Officers (AMO) and the Seafarers International Union (SIU) also expressed enthusiasm for the new initiative. AMO National President Willie Barrere highlighted the longstanding dedication of U.S. Merchant Mariners, many of whom are Puerto Rican, in delivering essential goods to the island. David Heindel, President of SIU, noted the union’s deep-rooted experience with LNG vessels and emphasized the importance of training mariners for this expanding sector.
With American Energy now in service, Puerto Rico is set to benefit from a more resilient and reliable energy infrastructure. The partnership between Crowley and Naturgy represents a critical shift toward energy independence, ensuring the island has a consistent fuel source that aligns with both economic and environmental priorities.
