China’s first methanol-fueled ultramax bulk carrier receives ABS approval

Lemissoler Navigation and the Shanghai Merchant Ship Design and Research Institute (SDARI) have received ABS approval in principle (AIP) for the design of a 65,000 DWT methanol-fueled ultramax bulk carrier, claimed to be the first such methanol vessel in China’s shipbuilding industry.

The design explores the feasibility of using methanol as fuel to accelerate the reduction of carbon emissions in pursuance of the IMO’s 2050 net zero target. With the implementation of EU ETS and FuelEU regulations, when burning green methanol the vessel will have a greater potential to reduce the cost related to carbon emissions. According to the companies, the vessel has been optimized and its preliminary Energy Efficiency Design Index (EEDI) indicates that it exceeds EEDI Phase 3 standards. ABS completed design reviews based on class and statutory requirements.

Christopher Wiernicki, chairman and CEO at ABS, said, “ABS understands and is deeply involved in supporting clients with decarbonization solutions. Getting to net zero by 2050 is an ambitious target for the industry, requiring more renewable energy options, zero-carbon fuels, carbon-neutral fuels and carbon capture technologies. Lemissoler and SDARI’s new design using methanol is an important piece of the puzzle to create a more sustainable shipping industry.”

Philippos Philis, chairman and CEO of Lemissoler Navigation, commented, “We at Lemissoler are once again pioneering new technological and innovative designs for our dry bulk fleet. The collaboration with SDARI and ABS is proof of how much can be achieved collectively. This new evolutionary design is another step toward Lemissoler’s target to become net zero by 2045.”

Zhou Zhiyong, vice president of SDARI, added, “As the designer of this innovative methanol-fueled vessel, SDARI is always committed to tailor-made and practical solutions for customers’ demands, offering an optimized design to satisfy future maritime rules and regulations.”

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