GAC North America has opened a new shipping office in Providence, Rhode Island, to augment its position as a leading service provider for the burgeoning US offshore wind industry, and strengthen its support for existing LNG, LPG, CPP and husbandry customers in the area.

It is the 18th office in GAC North America Shipping’s network covering ports across the United States, offering a range of services including ship agency, bunker fuels supplies, hub agency and protecting agency.

The office will provide shipping, logistics and marine support for the growing number of windfarms planned for the north-east coast of the US. According to industry estimates, offshore wind has the technical potential to supply more than double the current electricity demand for coastal states. Project targets are projected to reach beyond capacity of 30GW over the next decade, and ambitious goals have been set to make technological advances to meet demand.

GAC North America draws on the Group’s in-depth global experience in providing support in all aspects of offshore wind operations – from initial site surveys and installation through to operations and maintenance once operational, to deliver quality services to the sector.

Darren Martin, GAC North America – Shipping Managing Director, says the new Rhode Island base will be led by Port Manager Tony Youells, who brings more than 20 years of agency experience in the New England area.

Port Manager Tony Youells
Port Manager Tony Youells

He adds: “Tony’s experience will be invaluable as we further develop our presence and customer base in the burgeoning US Offshore Wind sector. In parallel, we continue to support our existing tanker, LNG, LPG, RORO and dry bulk customers across the region.”