Shipowners and operators evaluating methanol as a marine fuel now have access to a fully operational bunkering capability backed by US Coast Guard-approved procedures, trained personnel, and purpose-built equipment. World Fuel Services, in collaboration with West Coast Clean Fuels, has established a proven methanol bunkering capability available to vessel owners and operators across US ports. The companies successfully completed an over-the-water methanol bunker fuel delivery in South Florida, demonstrating a safe, scalable, and regulatory-compliant solution ready for deployment nationwide.
West Coast Clean Fuels is currently the only operator in the US whose truck-to-ship methanol bunkering procedures have been approved by the US Coast Guard, and its infrastructure is designed for rapid deployment to additional ports on demand.
The capability is the result of years of development, including comprehensive risk assessments, development of operational and emergency response procedures, equipment procurement, and personnel training.
“Our procedures didn’t just meet regulatory requirements – they helped shape them,” said Matt Campbell, technical manager, West Coast Clean Fuels. “The US Coast Guard’s recent guidance reflects the operation we’ve developed. Bringing that collaborative work to life with World Fuel is exactly the kind of milestone that demonstrates we are ready to deliver methanol bunkering across US ports.”
“World Fuel’s established global marine fuel platform allows us to deliver and transact methanol bunkering solutions efficiently and reliably to customers,” said Brad Hurwitz, senior vice president, supply and trading, World Fuel. “Shipowners and operators evaluating methanol as a marine fuel require both technical expertise and marine fuel delivery experience. This enhanced capability of World Fuel with West Coast Clean Fuels provides customers practical turnkey access to integrate methanol into existing fueling strategies.”