#United States #Fort Lauderdale #Sawgrass LNG #Port Everglades #LNG Fuel

Sawgrass LNG & Power Completes Historic LNG Operation at Port Everglades

On March 26, 2026, Sawgrass LNG & Power achieved a significant milestone in the maritime industry by successfully performing the first-ever shore-to-ship liquefied natural gas (LNG) bunkering operation at Port Everglades in Fort Lauderdale, Florida. This landmark event saw the Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection’s vessel, Ilma, being fueled, marking a pivotal moment for LNG as a sustainable marine fuel option in South Florida.

Port Everglades has long been recognized for its commitment to advancing environmentally friendly energy solutions, and this operation highlights its support for the adoption of next-generation marine fuels among cruise lines and cargo operators. Neil J. Kutchera, the Assistant Director of Energy and Innovation at Port Everglades, expressed the excitement surrounding this project, noting, "This is a defining moment for Port Everglades and our partners." He praised the collaborative effort behind this operation, acknowledging the successful partnerships formed to make it possible.

The bunkering procedure was meticulously coordinated among several key stakeholders including the Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection, Port Everglades, the U.S. Coast Guard Sector Miami, the Broward Sheriff's Office, and REV. This extensive collaboration ensured that the operation was executed with a strong emphasis on planning, safety oversight, and interagency guidance, reinforcing the importance of teamwork in achieving such milestones.

Daniel McLaughlin, President and Chief Commercial Officer of Sawgrass LNG & Power, expressed gratitude toward the partners involved. "We are deeply appreciative of all our partners for their roles in executing this milestone operation," McLaughlin stated. He emphasized a shared commitment to safety and operational excellence while looking forward to future bunkering projects at the Port.

The adoption of LNG as a sustainable fuel choice in the maritime sector is rapidly gaining traction, and Sawgrass LNG & Power is positioned to be a key player in meeting the growing demand. By providing a reliable and domestically sourced fuel, the company is not only supporting environmental efforts but also contributing to the logistical needs of marine operations. The successful bunkering at Port Everglades signifies more than just a completed operation; it heralds a new era for cleaner maritime fuel solutions that aligns with global sustainability goals.

Sawgrass LNG & Power stands as a leading supplier of LNG solutions, operating out of Miami, Florida. With a state-of-the-art LNG facility, the company delivers comprehensive supply, logistics, and power solutions to utilities, industrial users, and the transportation sector, including services specifically tailored for marine bunkering.

In summary, the completion of the first LNG shore-to-ship operation at Port Everglades represents a significant leap toward cleaner energy solutions in the maritime industry. As the sector continues to evolve, the role of LNG in reducing carbon footprints becomes increasingly vital. This operation not only places Port Everglades at the forefront of sustainable marine fuel initiatives but also sets the stage for more innovative solutions in the future.