A joint venture (JV) consisting of methanol producer Proman and tanker shipping company Stena Bulk has announced the delivery of the pair’s second methanol-powered new-build tanker, built by Guangzhou Shipyard International in China.
The IMOIIMeMAX vessel – named Stena Pro Marine – is a dual-fuel mid-range tanker which is estimated to consume 12,500 tons of methanol each year. By utilizing methanol, the vessel will virtually eliminate all pollutants such as SOx and particulate matter. Additionally, NOx emissions will be cut by 60% and CO2 emissions reduced by up to 15% on a tank to wake basis compared to traditionally used maritime fuels.
“Vessels such as the Stena Pro Marine demonstrate to shipowners and policymakers that the industry can take proactive and immediate steps on the decarbonization pathway,” said Anita Gajadhar, MD of Proman Shipping, marketing and logistics. “As regulators continue to propel much-needed maritime decarbonization, including the EU’s ‘Fit for 55’ legislative package, these vessels underline the importance of a regulatory framework that relies on one certification methodology for alternative fuels and accurate emission measurements of all fuels – including reduced carbon-intensity fossil-origin products, which play an important early role in accelerating the switch to cleaner fuels and enabling the pathway to net-zero.”
“We’re proud to be able to add Stena Pro Marine alongside Stena Pro Patria to our fleet with this delivery announcement,” commented Erik Hånell, president and CEO of Stena Bulk. “We truly believe that these vessels are not only a step forward for MR tanker design but are also a clear statement of intent to the market. They showcase our confidence in methanol as an important and viable solution for the future of sustainable shipping.”