The Marshalls Energy Company is looking into the possibility of purchasing an additional fuel tanker vessel for servicing Ebeye and various outer islands where it operates power plants.
This new plan, which is supported by the RMI national budget for next fiscal year with proposed matching funding of $1.5 million, has developed following operation of MEC’s landing craft “Meram” over the past four years.
Its existing fuel delivery vessel, “Meram,” was recently damaged by a fire that broke out on the bridge while the vessel was heading to Kwajalein. It is expected to be repaired and put back into service at a later date, according to MEC CEO Jack Chong Gum.
“The funding identified in the RMI’s FY2027 budget is part of MEC’s long-term planning to support the continued expansion of our service responsibilities and to strengthen the reliability and safety of fuel transportation for our power plants and the communities we serve throughout the Marshall Islands,” Chong Gum told the Journal.
“As fuel demand and logistical requirements continue to grow, MEC is exploring the acquisition of an additional fuel tanker vessel with capabilities that are better aligned with our current and future operational needs.”
The point of a new vessel that is under consideration is to “enhance the safe and efficient transport of fuel to support power generation and fuel deliveries to neighboring island communities,” he said.
MEC plans to repair the fire damaged Meram. “With respect to Meram, MEC’s current plan is to undertake the necessary repairs and return the vessel to service,” he said. “Meram remains an important asset, and we expect it to continue supporting MEC’s operations while we evaluate and procure additional transportation capacity.”
Chong Gum added: “Once a new vessel is operational and integrated into our fleet, MEC will assess the most appropriate long-term role for Meram based on operational requirements, asset condition, and the company’s future service needs.”
A new vessel is part of operating a “safe, reliable, and resilient fuel supply chain for the benefit of the communities we serve,” he said.