- Maersk named its 11th dual-fuel methanol vessel, ‘Albert Maersk’, in Mumbai.
- Indian ministers and key stakeholders attended the event.
- Maersk continues its commitment to green shipping and carbon-neutral fuel solutions.
On 28th February 2025, A.P. Moller-Meersk (Maersk) marked the naming of its latest dual-fuel methanol container ship, ‘Albert Maersk,’ at a ceremony in APM Terminals Mumbai. This was Maersk’s first-ever vessel naming ceremony in India. The event was graced by the Honourable Minister of Ports, Shipping and Waterways, Sarbananda Sonowal, and the Honourable Minister of State for Youth Affairs and Sports, Raksha Khadse, along with diplomats, government officials, customers, partners, and Maersk staff, reports Maersk.
India’s Role in Green Fuel Production
Minister Sarbananda Sonowal highlighted India’s potential in the green fuel sector: “It is a privilege for India to host the naming of this advanced dual-fuel vessel, a historic first for a foreign shipping company in our country. With the demand for green vessels rising, India has the potential to become a major producer and supplier of green methanol, ammonia, and hydrogen-based fuels. Maersk’s decision to focus on green fuel production in India is a welcome step that will accelerate our journey towards a sustainable maritime future. This vessel naming is more than just a tradition—it is a symbol of trust, collaboration, and a shared vision for the future. As India moves towards becoming a global maritime powerhouse, we welcome Maersk’s continued partnership in green shipping, green fuel production, and logistics.”
Maersk’s Commitment to Decarbonising Shipping
Vincent Clerc, CEO of A.P. Moller-Maersk, emphasized the company’s dedication to reducing emissions: “Maersk continues to take firm steps towards decarbonising shipping with the addition of one more dual-fuel vessel to its fleet. India is among the world’s fastest-growing major economies, with a thriving manufacturing sector, a booming e-commerce industry, and expanding exports. Shipping and logistics are high on India’s priorities, and Maersk looks forward to partnering with India on various aspects, such as exploring the potential sourcing of alternative fuels for low-emissions shipping and activities involving ship repairs and shipbuilding in the future that align well with the Indian Government’s ambitions to promote the shipping sector.”
Significant Investments in India’s Infrastructure
During the ceremony, Maersk announced plans to explore investment opportunities of approximately USD 5 billion in India’s ports, terminals, and landside infrastructure. Keith Svendsen, CEO of APM Terminals, stated: “We believe we can play a role in reducing the cost of logistics by ensuring that our customers access all their supply chain needs in one place—from all modes of transportation to port handling to warehousing and distribution. As APM Terminals, we are ready to invest more in developing ports with low emissions and great efficiency that will help businesses grow and connect India with the global markets.”
‘Albert Maersk’ Specifications and Environmental Impact
‘Albert Maersk’ is constructed at Hyundai Heavy Industries in Ulsan, South Korea, and forms part of a series of 18 large dual-fuel methanol ships that will be delivered in 2024 and 2025. The ship’s capacity is 16,592 TEU (twenty-foot equivalent units). These dual-fuel ships are part of Maersk’s target to reach net-zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2040. Bio- and e-methanol can lower GHG emissions by at least 65% over traditional fossil fuels, varying depending on the feedstock and production method.
Maersk remains a vocal supporter of robust IMO regulations to drive the industry towards its climate goals. In Maersk’s view, fuel-agnostic regulations are a prerequisite to encourage a multi-fuel future for shipping and to make low-emission transport modes available and competitive.
Did you subscribe to our daily Newsletter?
It’s Free Click here to Subscribe!
Source: Maersk
