Historic Moment as Ulsan Bunkers World's First Large Methanol-Powered Containership

The groundbreaking Ane Maersk, recognized as the world's first large methanol dual-fuel containership, has achieved a significant milestone by successfully completing its initial ship-to-ship (STS) green methanol bunkering at Ulsan Port, South Korea. This momentous occasion saw the bunkering of green methanol onto the 16,000 TEU Ane Maersk, Maersk's pioneering large methanol-powered containership. The bunkering operation was facilitated by the bunkership Golden Sunny Hana, owned by South Korean shipping company Hana Marine.

The successful completion of this bunkering operation was officially announced by the Ministry of Oceans and Fisheries and Ulsan Port Authority. This achievement is a strategic move as South Korea endeavors to foster growth in the realm of sustainable marine fueling within its ports. To support this initiative, the Ministry of Oceans and Fisheries has laid the foundation for relevant institutional frameworks, including the establishment of the 'Guidelines for Approval of Self-Safety Management Plan for Methanol Supply.' The development of these guidelines builds on the knowledge gained through two methanol supply demonstrations conducted in collaboration with Ulsan Port Authority in July and November of the previous year.

The global competition among international ports to establish a foothold in the sustainable marine fuel market is gaining momentum. As part of Korea's commitment to achieving net-zero emissions by 2050 within the global shipping sector, concerted efforts are being made to enhance competitiveness. The goal is for Korea to take a leading role in the global transition to sustainable fuels.

Ane Maersk, christened at HD Hyundai Heavy Industries (HD HHI) in Ulsan just two weeks prior, stands as a significant achievement. This vessel marks the first installment of Maersk's ambitious plan to deploy 18 large methanol-enabled vessels, all scheduled for delivery between 2024 and 2025. Notably, Ane Maersk is the world's second methanol-enabled container vessel, solidifying Maersk's commitment to embracing innovative and sustainable solutions in the maritime industry.

The utilization of green methanol as a dual-fuel source for Ane Maersk signifies a crucial step towards reducing the environmental impact of maritime operations. The successful bunkering operation at Ulsan Port underlines the viability and practical implementation of methanol as a sustainable marine fuel. As the shipping industry navigates the transition towards cleaner and greener practices, Ane Maersk serves as a pioneering example, setting the stage for future vessels to adopt alternative fuels and contribute to a more sustainable maritime ecosystem.

The completion of the ship-to-ship green methanol bunkering for Ane Maersk at Ulsan Port marks a watershed moment in the maritime industry's pursuit of sustainability. The collaboration between Maersk, Ulsan Port, and relevant authorities reflects a collective commitment to advancing environmentally friendly practices in shipping. Ane Maersk's role as a trailblazer in methanol-powered shipping underscores the industry's ongoing evolution towards greener and more sustainable operations.