Japanese shipping giant NYK Line has completed what it says is the world's first methanol bunkering from a barge to a ship.
The Tokyo-listed operator said its owned 50,000-dwt chemical tanker Takaroa Sun (built 2019) took on the green fuel at Rotterdam on 10 May in a project led by the charterer, Canada's Waterfront Shipping.
The tanker is fitted with dual-fuel engines to run on methanol.
The bunkering was also supported by the Port of Rotterdam, tank terminals group Royal Vopak and TankMatch.
15% carbon cut
NYK said methanol fuel produces up to 15% less carbon emissions during combustion than conventional fuel oil.
Its use also reduces SOx emissions by about 99%.
Particulate matter and NOx are significantly reduced as well.
"Methanol is expected to be one of the next-generation fuels for future ships that will have a low environmental impact," the Japanese group said.
"By conducting risk assessments and providing technical support for barge-to-ship methanol fuel bunkering, the NYK Group is contributing to the ability to safely supply methanol fuel to the vessels of the future," the company added.
NYK pledged to continue working on the introduction of next-generation fuels that have a low environmental impact.
Barge bunkering gives owners the flexibility to refuel alongside a pier or quay, or at anchor.
Waterfront expanding methanol fleet
In December, Waterfront Shipping confirmed it was behind an order for eight methanol dual-fuel MR tankers at South Korea’s Hyundai Mipo Dockyard.
The company, which is part of Methanex Corp, said the vessels are part of its programme to replace older vessels with newer more efficient tonnage.
