China has begun building its first full-chain green methanol facility aimed at powering the maritime sector, marking a major step toward cleaner shipping fuels, reports Marine Insight.
The project is a joint venture between Jilin Electric Power, COSCO Shipping, and Shanghai International Port Group, and will be located in Lishu, northeastern China.
China builds landmark methanol plant for cleaner shipping
Designed to produce around 197,000 tonnes of green methanol annually, the plant will use renewable hydrogen generated from 150 MW of wind and solar power. The carbon feedstock will come from agricultural biomass such as waste straw, creating a fully circular, low-carbon production process.
Beyond supplying domestic shipping needs, the facility will also serve global markets, supporting the growing adoption of methanol-fueled vessels. The project is expected to cut 300,000 tonnes of CO₂ emissions per year and generate hundreds of local jobs.
As shipping looks to decarbonize, green methanol is emerging as a practical alternative to fossil fuels—compatible with existing bunkering infrastructure and easier to handle than hydrogen or ammonia. China’s new plant signals its intent to lead in developing scalable, sustainable marine fuels for the future.
Did you subscribe to our daily Newsletter?
It’s Free Click here to Subscribe!
Source: Marine Insight
