Methanol Leading the Way: A Shift Towards Cleaner Marine Fuels
Key Ideas
  • Methanol is gaining traction in the marine industry, with Port of Antwerp-Bruges launching the Methatug in a pilot project under the EU-funded Fastwater initiative.
  • There is a growing trend towards using methanol as a marine fuel, with an increase in methanol-fueled vessels being built globally and plans for green methanol production plants.
  • Hydrogen is also emerging as a potential marine fuel, but challenges remain regarding regulations, with the need for IMO and class societies to develop specific rules for its use.
  • The industry is gearing up for a shift towards cleaner marine fuels, with hydrogen and ammonia being considered as viable options for the future.
At Riviera’s 27th ITS Convention, methanol emerged as a leading candidate for cleaner marine fuels, highlighted by the launch of the Methatug at the Port of Antwerp-Bruges as part of the Fastwater project. The Methatug, powered by dual-fuel engines capable of storing and combusting methanol, is one of several pilot projects exploring different propulsion technologies and fuels, including the world's first hydrogen-powered tugboat and a battery-electric tug. The Methanol Institute reports a surge in methanol fuel bunkering on merchant ships and the construction of port infrastructure to support methanol usage. Plans for green methanol production plants are underway, with a forecasted increase in annual production by 2028. While methanol gains momentum, hydrogen also shows promise as a marine fuel, but regulatory challenges persist. The Zero Emissions Ship Technology Association anticipates a shift towards hydrogen but stresses the need for updated regulations to ensure safety. Additionally, hydrogen storage poses a significant challenge, with ammonia being explored as a potential solution. Amidst these developments, the industry is preparing for a future driven by cleaner marine fuels, with hydrogen and ammonia emerging as key contenders alongside methanol.
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