Maersk Enhances Methanol Bunkering Standards in Japan with Latest Initiatives

A.P. Moller – Maersk (Maersk) has marked a pivotal moment in Japan’s methanol bunkering industry by co-hosting the country's inaugural "methanol bunkering simulation" at the Port of Yokohama. This simulation involved Maersk’s newest dual-fuel methanol vessel, the Alette Maersk, which was recently launched in Los Angeles. During the simulation, Maersk's vessel worked alongside Kokuka Sangyo’s methanol tanker, the Eikamaru, to test crucial bunkering operations such as berthing, unberthing, and hose connections. This initiative aims to support Japan as it develops its methanol fuel bunkering guidelines and infrastructure.

The simulation represents a significant step forward following Maersk’s earlier Memorandum of Understanding with the City of Yokohama and Mitsubishi Gas Chemical to develop methanol bunkering infrastructure in Yokohama. The effort is further endorsed by key stakeholders, including the Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport, and Tourism’s Port and Harbor Bureau.

NAKAGAWA Kenzo, Director of the Industrial Port Policy Division at the Ports and Harbours Bureau, expressed his appreciation for the simulation, noting that the insights gained will be crucial for establishing methanol bunkering hubs across Japan. He emphasized that the Ports and Harbors Bureau plans to form a study group to advance the development of these hubs, leveraging the valuable findings from the simulation.

Yasuhiro Shimbo, Director General of the Port and Harbor Bureau in Yokohama, praised Maersk for its role in the simulation and highlighted Yokohama’s commitment to advancing methanol bunkering capabilities. He underscored the port’s dedication to contributing to the decarbonization of both Japanese and international maritime transport.

Masahiko Naito, Division Director of the C1 Chemicals Division, considered the simulation a vital advancement in establishing methanol bunkering and attaining carbon neutrality in Japan. He expressed enthusiasm about the successful collaboration with multiple partners involved in the project.

Toru Nishiyama, Managing Director for Northeast Asia at Maersk, emphasized the company’s commitment to a decarbonized future and its pleasure in supporting Japan’s ambitions in the shipping and energy sectors. Nishiyama looked forward to continued collaboration with the industry and ecosystem in Japan to accelerate the adoption of lower-emission practices.

A.P. Moller – Maersk, a prominent global logistics provider, is committed to optimizing and simplifying supply chains for its clients. Operating in over 130 countries with a workforce of around 100,000 employees, Maersk stands at the forefront of the logistics industry. The company is dedicated to achieving net zero emissions by 2040, focusing on innovative technologies, modern vessels, and low-emission fuels to drive this transition. Maersk’s ambitious environmental goals reflect its broader commitment to sustainability and its role in leading the logistics sector towards a more eco-friendly future.