SIMIC

THE Port of Rotterdam has refueled a containership powered by methanol for the first time, reports Reuters.

This shift in the shipping industry toward methanol technology as an emissions-reducing solution is highlighted by methanol producer OCI Global.



Owned by Maersk, the vessel embarked on a journey covering 21,500 km (13,359 miles) from South Korea's Hyundai Mipo Dockyard to Copenhagen on July 10.



The ship also underwent refueling in Singapore before making its most recent stop in Rotterdam, which holds the distinction of being Europe's largest refueling hub.



This entire voyage is being powered by green methanol. Green methanol, recognised as a low-carbon fuel, is derived from renewable sources like hydrogen and biomethane.



The shipping industry, it is said, sees it as a promising solution to achieve its ambitious target of achieving net-zero emissions by 2050.



Maersk, counted among the world's largest shipping companies, is set to christen the new vessel upon its arrival in Copenhagen come September.



This is part of a broader effort, as the company has ordered an additional 24 of these vessels, which can operate on conventional fuel oil and methanol.



Looking ahead, consulting firm classification society DNV anticipates the launch of 30 new methanol-capable ships this year, which is expected to exceed 200 by 2028.