EnerSea has responded to the needs of smaller markets, such as remote coastal and island electrical utilities using costly fuel oil and diesel, which have been hit hard with recent increases in world oil prices. To provide a more cost effective and fit-for-purpose solution for these markets, EnerSea has extended its range of services to include a barge-based CNG delivery system, based on the same VOTRANS technology and principles used in its industry-leading ship-based system.

EnerSea's Volume-Optimised CNG barge system (VO-BargeTM) provides solutions for gas delivery needs in the range of <10 MMscfd to over 50 MMscfd over transit distances ranging from 50 nm to 500+ nm. A typical VO-Barge general arrangement and specification are illustrated below:

The VO-Barge design volume and gas handling facilities at each port will be tailored to match the specific needs of a given project. Note that the barge system has been designed with the containment system arranged horizontally along the deck of the barge. The gas handling facilities are contained in the port area rather than aboard the vessel. These features improve cost and operational performance for small-volume, short haul service.

The VO-Barge system also employs an articulated tug-barge design (ATB), wherein the tug is coupled directly to the barge. The ATB will provide for better speed and maneuverability in the open seas than towed barges, which results in a very cost effective service.

The VO-Barges can be constructed in numerous yards worldwide, providing greater flexibility for project timing and cost competitiveness than for large-scale ship constructions in today's marketplace. VO-Barge projects can be placed into operation in less than two years from project sanction (see Project Schedule section).

The VO-Barge CNG system can operate in shallow waters, opening up access to smaller gas reserves and markets worldwide.

The VO-Barge design has received confirmation by ABS as being within the Approval in Principle certification that was granted to EnerSea's VOTRANS CNG ship system.