- X-Press Feeders is expanding its green methanol-powered network with the launch of the Green Baltic X-PRESS (GBX) route, starting August 23, using their new dual-fuel vessel, Eco-Umande.
- The GBX route will connect Rotterdam, Antwerp-Bruges, Klaipeda, Riga, and Rotterdam, complementing the existing Green Finland X-PRESS.
- This move supports X-Press Feeders’ commitment to reducing greenhouse gas emissions and aligns with new EU maritime regulations.
X-Press Feeders has made strides in sustainable shipping with the addition of its third dual-fuel vessel, the Eco-Umande, and the launch of the Green Baltic X-PRESS (GBX) route. This development marks a significant step in the company’s commitment to green maritime practices, reports AJOT.
New Route and Vessel
The Green Baltic X-PRESS (GBX) will begin operations on August 23, connecting Rotterdam, Antwerp-Bruges, Klaipeda, Riga, and back to Rotterdam. This new route, powered by green methanol, follows the successful introduction of the Green Finland X-PRESS (GFX) in July.
The Eco-Umande joins the Eco-Maestro and Eco-Levant as part of X-Press Feeders’ dual-fuel fleet. Each vessel has a capacity of 1,260 TEUs and utilizes the latest technology for fuel efficiency.
“Building on the momentum of our first green methanol-powered route, we are excited to launch the Green Baltic X-PRESS, expanding our feeder network powered by green methanol and providing more sustainable shipping options to our customers,” says Francis Goh, Chief Operating Officer of X-Press Feeders.
“The addition of the Eco-Umande to our fleet underscores our commitment to innovation and decarbonization in the maritime industry.”
Sustainability and Regulations
The Green Baltic X-PRESS route underscores X-Press Feeders’ commitment to sustainability. Green methanol, the fuel used by these vessels, reduces greenhouse gas emissions by up to 65 percent compared to conventional fuels.
It is produced from organic waste and residues and is certified under ISCC (International Sustainability and Carbon Certification).
This move is timely with the EU’s emissions trading scheme (ETS) for maritime shipping already in effect and the upcoming Fuel EU Maritime regulations requiring reductions in greenhouse gas emissions starting January 2025.
Strategic Partnerships and Future Plans
The Port of Rotterdam will serve as the initial base for this new network due to its green methanol refueling capabilities. X-Press Feeders has signed agreements with several ports, including Antwerp Bruges, Klaipeda, Riga, Tallinn, Helsinki, and HaminaKotka, to support the green methanol network.
The company has ordered 14 dual-fuel vessels and plans to expand its green methanol-powered network across Europe.
“X-Press Feeders is dedicated to being at the forefront of sustainable shipping, and the launch of the Green Baltic X-PRESS represents another step in our journey toward decarbonizing the maritime industry,” adds Goh.
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Source: AJOT
