What are Deepwater Ports?
A deepwater port is a port that is located in the open ocean, at least 20 miles from the coastline, and is used to transfer oil, natural gas, and other hazardous materials between vessels. These ports are typically located in deep water, hence the name "deepwater port."
Deepwater ports can be used to transfer a variety of materials, including crude oil, refined petroleum products, liquefied natural gas (LNG), and other hazardous materials. They are typically located in areas with deep water, so that large vessels, such as oil tankers and LNG carriers, can safely dock and transfer their cargo.
Deepwater ports can be either offshore or onshore facilities. Offshore deepwater ports are typically located in the open ocean, while onshore deepwater ports are located along the coastline. Both types of ports can be used to transfer oil, natural gas, and other hazardous materials between vessels.
The construction, operation, and maintenance of deepwater ports in the United States are regulated by the Deepwater Port Act of 1974 (DPA), which establishes a licensing process and sets safety standards for these facilities. The DPA is administered by the Maritime Administration (MARAD) of the Department of Transportation.
The Deepwater Port Act of 1972 (DPA)
The Deepwater Port Act of 1974 (DPA) is a United States federal law that provides a process for the construction, operation, and maintenance of deepwater ports in the United States. A deepwater port is defined as a port that is located in the open ocean, at least 20 miles from the coastline, and is used to transfer oil, natural gas, and other hazardous materials between vessels.
The DPA establishes a licensing process for the construction and operation of deepwater ports, which is administered by the Maritime Administration (MARAD) of the Department of Transportation. The Act requires that deepwater port applicants submit a detailed proposal to MARAD, including plans for the construction and operation of the port, as well as environmental and safety assessments. MARAD then reviews the proposal and, if it meets all requirements, grants a license to the applicant.
The DPA also establishes safety standards for deepwater ports, including requirements for emergency response plans and the use of spill containment and cleanup equipment. The Act also grants the U.S. Coast Guard authority to enforce safety regulations at deepwater ports and to inspect the facilities for compliance.
The Deepwater Port Act of 1974 has played a significant role in the development of deepwater ports in the United States, helping to ensure that these facilities are constructed and operated safely and efficiently.
deepwater port licensing
ABADIE is one of the only teams in the nation who has self-generated and filed for a deepwater port licensing application. ABADIE still actively facilitates the Texas GulfLink deepwater port licensing application on behalf of Sentinel Midstream.
ABADIE has provided professional services, consulting, and performed work for two (2) potential crude oil deepwater ports and two (2) potential LNG deepwater port, while maintaining a highly specialized understanding of the intricacies involved in this important and detailed permitting process.
ABADIE is uniquely qualified and experienced to assist project owners with the deepwater port licensing application creation and facilitation of the licensing process with the United States Coast Guard (“USCG”) and Maritime Administration (“MARAD”).
ABADIE has a team of industry partners capable of provided complimentary services through the deepwater port licensing process.