Alphaliner reports that the momentum behind dual-fuel ship orders has begun to plateau in the first ten months of 2025. Despite strong efforts by carriers to align with net-zero decarbonisation goals, the pace of alternative fuel newbuildings has shown clear signs of moderation this year.
Over 72% of all newbuilding orders placed so far in 2025 are designed for alternative fuel use — a strong indicator of the industry’s continued commitment to cleaner propulsion technologies. However, this marks the second consecutive year of decline in the share of such orders. The dip highlights ongoing challenges in securing reliable supplies of next-generation fuels, a key factor that has tempered enthusiasm across shipowners and operators alike.
LNG propulsion continues to dominate the dual-fuel segment. In the first ten months of 2025, LNG-powered vessels accounted for 60% of total capacity ordered, slightly down from 63% in 2024. This underscores the fuel’s sustained role as a practical, transitional solution amid the evolving energy landscape of global shipping.
Meanwhile, methanol-fuelled orders have seen a notable retreat. Once a favourite among carriers aiming for rapid decarbonisation, methanol-powered tonnage has dropped from 18% of new orders in 2024 to just 12% so far in 2025. This shift reflects growing apprehension around the global availability and scalability of methanol as a marine fuel.
Interestingly, this decline has not directly benefited LNG orders. Instead, conventionally-fuelled vessels have regained ground, accounting for 28% of capacity ordered in 2025 compared to 19% last year. The rebound has been particularly visible in ships up to 7,500 TEU — especially within the sub-6,000 TEU range — suggesting a targeted ordering trend within mid-sized segments.
As the maritime sector continues balancing decarbonisation ambitions with fuel accessibility and cost realities, 2025 appears to be a year of recalibration rather than acceleration. The current plateau in dual-fuel orders may signal a strategic pause before the next wave of innovation reshapes global fleet renewal once again.
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Source: Alphaliner
