A small LNG carrier is set to begin operations shortly, doubling the volumes that can be shipped from a Norwegian production plant and heralding a new size concept for vessels in the sector. Anthony Veder’s 15,700-cbm newbuilding Coral Energy (illustrated) is due to be operational in three months’ time, Norwegian gas distributor Skangass said. The vessel is fixed on long-term charter to Skangass-controlled Lyse Energi. The LNG carrier, which is being built at Meyer Werft’s Neptun yard in the Netherlands, will be used to ship cargoes produced at Skangass’ Risavika plant in Norway to the Nynashamn import terminal in Sweden and other buyers in the Scandinavian coastal region. Coral Energy is due to be christened in Rotterdam in early December. The ship will replace Veder’s 7,500-cbm Coral Methane (built 2009), which has been undertaking the business during this year under a re-let deal from its main charterer Gasnor. Skangass, which is part of Norway’s Lyse Group, said a larger vessel is needed to serve customers in Sweden and eastern Norway and with a view to future work.