X-Press Feeders Leads Green Methanol Revolution In Shipping

115

Green Methanol-Powered Containership & Delivery and Features

Singapore-based independent common carrier X-Press Feeders has taken delivery of its first green methanol-powered containership built by Chinese shipbuilder Yangzijiang Shipbuilding Group.

The 1,260 TEU boxship, built by Chinese shipbuilder Yangzijiang Shipbuilding Group, was delivered on May 16, 2024. It boasts a dual-fuel engine capable of running on green methanol, positioning it at the forefront of Europe’s inaugural feeder network powered by this eco-friendly fuel.

Fleet Expansion and Voyage Plans

X-Press Feeders, with a fleet exceeding 100 vessels, has a robust expansion plan, including fourteen dual-fuel vessels scheduled for delivery between the first quarter of 2024 and mid-2026. Each vessel, approximately 1,200 TEU in capacity, is 148 meters in length.

The first dual-fuel vessel, dubbed the first green methanol-powered containership built in China, will sail on its maiden voyage from Shanghai to the Port of Rotterdam via the Suez Canal.

It will use bio-methanol for its voyage to Europe. Bio-methanol is a renewable energy source produced from the decomposition of organic matter, such as waste and residues.

Establishing Partnerships & Environmental Commitments

While dedicated to green methanol, X-Press Feeders acknowledges the global challenge of methanol availability and distribution at ports. To address this, the company has entered into a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with six European ports. This collaboration aims to accelerate the creation of green shipping corridors, particularly in Scandinavia and the Baltic Sea, and facilitate the marine sector’s decarbonization.

Under the MoU, infrastructure development for alternative fuel provision and bunkering, including green methanol, is prioritized.

The company also signed a firm contract with Dutch fuel supplier OCI Global for the supply of green methanol, which is ISCC-EU certified.

The decision to incorporate dual-fuel vessels powered by green methanol aligns with X-Press Feeders’ ambitious sustainability targets. These targets include reducing greenhouse gas emissions (CO2e) by 20% by 2035, 50% by 2040, and achieving net-zero emissions by 2050.

Did you subscribe to our daily Newsletter?

It’s Free! Click here to Subscribe

Source: Offshore-Energy