Bureau Veritas Marine & Offshore (BV M&O) has announced the recent delivery of the ‘Ecomar Gascogne’, first of four newbuild dual-fuel methanol chemical IMO II medium-range (MR) tankers built at Guangzhou Shipyard International for owner Socatra and its joint-venture partner Hafnia.
Two more are scheduled for delivery later in 2025, with the fourth and final vessel expected in 2026. Since these vessels are dual-fuel, they can run on both conventional fuels and methanol. These ships will be able to lower their emissions, as the production of green methanol increases. Green methanol can cut CO2 emissions and also significantly reduces NOx, SOx and particulate matter emission levels.
BV is actively supporting the development of low-carbon alternative fuels, including methanol dual-fuel, through work including assessment of technical feasibility and safety profile. Through research and collaboration with key stakeholders, BV hopes to de-risk innovative technologies to enable their safe adoption in the maritime industry’s transition to lower-carbon energy.
David Barrow, MV M&O SVP Western Europe and Americas, said: “The Ecomar Gascogne symbolises our commitment to advancing sustainability and to decarbonising the maritime industry. We look forward to continuing our successful collaboration with Socatra and Hafnia as we work with the entire sector to support the adoption of alternative fuels.”
Image: ‘Ecomar Gascogne’ at naming ceremony (source: BV/Guangzhou Shipyard)
