The Zero Emission Maritime Buyers Alliance (ZEMBA) has revealed ambitious plans for a groundbreaking tender aimed at introducing e-fuel-powered container shipping services, representing a significant step in maritime decarbonization efforts. Speaking at the Riviera's Maritime Decarbonization Conference Americas in Houston, ZEMBA director Ingrid Irigoyen disclosed that the alliance has aggregated demand equivalent to 80 billion tonne nautical miles, which is comparable to 1.4 million TEU on the Shanghai-Los Angeles route, set for deployment from 2027 onwards. The tender specifically focuses on e-fuels derived from clean hydrogen sources, including e-methanol, e-methane, and e-ammonia. Ingrid Irigoyen emphasized the growing belief among freight buyers that the future global economy will be centered on clean energy, expressing the importance of preparing the essential shipping sector for this transition, despite the associated higher costs. Building on a previous successful tender completed in April 2024 where 17 freight buyers contracted with Hapag Lloyd for liquid biomethane from waste services, ZEMBA has doubled its membership to 42 companies, now including major names like Amazon, Patagonia, and Tchibo. The new tender sets a high standard, requiring a 90% reduction in emissions for primary propulsion and offering longer commitment periods of three to five years, an increase from the previous two-year contracts. The alliance plans to select multiple winners, with ocean carriers taking the lead as primary bidders alongside e-fuel producers. ZEMBA adopts a 'geography-neutral' strategy through book and claim mechanisms, prioritizing economic viability in investments. Irigoyen stressed that the planet benefits regardless of where the fuel switch occurs and should be implemented where the best alternative solutions are available. To manage delivery risks effectively, ZEMBA will prioritize fuel production facilities that have finalized investment decisions before the mid-2025 contract signing. The tender process is expected to commence in early 2025, encouraging carriers and fuel producers to form partnerships in advance of the bidding phase. This initiative showcases a positive sentiment towards embracing sustainable practices and innovation in the maritime industry, supported by corporate partnerships and a shared vision of a cleaner energy future.