Crowley, a U.S.-owned shipping and logistics company, together with Puerto Rico Governor Jenniffer González-Colón, celebrated the successful operation of the American Energy vessel at an event held on June 18 at Crowley’s LNG Loading Terminal in Peñuelas. The American Energy is notable for being the first U.S.-flagged liquefied natural gas (LNG) carrier dedicated to delivering U.S.-sourced LNG to Puerto Rico.
The vessel, owned by Crowley and crewed by SIU and AMO members, began its service in March 2025. It measures 900 feet in length and can transport up to 34.4 million gallons of LNG per voyage. Under a multi-year agreement with Naturgy, the American Energy provides regular service between the U.S. Gulf Coast and EcoEléctrica’s LNG facility in Peñuelas, contributing to a reliable energy supply for Puerto Rico.
Tom Crowley, chairman and CEO of Crowley Corporation, stated: “American Energy demonstrates the power of partnership. Together, we are building upon a shared commitment to dependable, sustainable energy solutions for Puerto Rico. We are not only enhancing the resilience of the island’s power infrastructure but also supporting its economic growth and ensuring long-term energy security for the communities and businesses that rely on it every day.”
Governor Jenniffer González-Colón remarked on the significance of this development: “The entry into service of the American Energy marks a significant step in our efforts to increase energy supply sources, marking the first time that an American-flagged tanker will transport liquefied natural gas from the mainland to Puerto Rico. This represents a major step forward in fuel supply reliability to stabilize our electric grid, which will greatly benefit our population.”
She further emphasized: “Just in time for the start of the peak energy consumption season, this natural gas supply route from U.S. sources expands our options for stabilizing our electric grid as we work to provide our residents and businesses with a more reliable and consistent source of power generation.”
The event saw participation from several key figures including Josean González Febres, Mayor of Peñuelas; Josue Colon, Puerto Rico Energy Czar; Mary Carmen Zapata from Puerto Rico Electric Power Authority; Norberto Negrón from Puerto Rico Ports Authority; and Carlos Ríos from Puerto Rico Economic Development & Commerce Department.
Crowley has been committed to serving Puerto Rico for over 70 years. In addition to operating the Isla Grande cargo terminal in San Juan, Crowley annually delivers more than 94 million gallons of LNG through its terminal in Peñuelas. The company also advances innovative LNG microgrids aimed at bolstering energy resilience while reducing emissions.
