X-Press Feeders Introduces China's Inaugural Methanol Dual-Fuel Ship

X-Press Feeders, the preeminent independent common carrier on a global scale, has revealed the distinctive appearance of the initial vessel among a fleet of 14 methanol dual-fuel ships. This unveiling is part of a strategic initiative to establish an environmentally conscious feeder network in the Baltic region.

These vessels, currently under construction in China, boast a substantial capacity of 1,200 twenty-foot equivalent units and an overall length of 148 meters. The inaugural ship from this series, known as Eco Maestro, is scheduled for its maiden voyage in the first quarter of the upcoming year.

What sets Eco Maestro apart is its utilization of bio-methanol, making it the first bio methanol-powered ship to be constructed in China. The vessel is slated to embark on its journey to Europe, aiming to power the entire voyage from Shanghai to Rotterdam with green methanol. However, certain ports along the route currently lack the necessary infrastructure to supply methanol to ships. In response, Francis Goh, Chief Operating Officer of X-Press Feeders, emphasizes their active engagement with these ports to facilitate methanol availability.

In a significant move towards sustainability, X-Press Feeders has entered into a contractual agreement with Dutch fuel supplier OCI Global. This collaboration entails the supply of green methanol at the Port of Rotterdam, commencing in 2024. The strategic partnership aligns with X-Press Feeders' commitment to adopting eco-friendly practices and reducing carbon emissions.

According to X-Press Feeders, the deployment of Eco Maestro on a round voyage service is projected to yield substantial environmental benefits. Specifically, the vessel is anticipated to save 268 kilograms of carbon dioxide equivalent (CO2e) emissions for every teu carried. This represents a noteworthy reduction when compared to a feeder vessel of similar capacity operating on conventional marine fuel.

In the broader context of maritime sustainability, the adoption of methanol dual-fuel technology is gaining momentum. X-Press Feeders' Eco Maestro joins the ranks of pioneering vessels embracing this innovative propulsion system. The move towards methanol as a fuel source aligns with global efforts to mitigate the environmental impact of shipping activities.

It is worth noting that Maersk, a prominent player in the maritime industry, has also embraced the methanol dual-fuel paradigm. Earlier this year, Maersk welcomed its first methanol dual-fuelled ship, which is now actively navigating routes in the Baltic region. This concurrent commitment from industry leaders like X-Press Feeders and Maersk reflects a collective push towards more sustainable and environmentally friendly maritime practices.