A.P. Moller–Maersk reports that it has taken a significant step towards supporting the development of methanol bunkering in Japan by co-hosting Japan’s first ‘methanol bunkering simulation’ at the Port of Yokohama.
The Alette Maersk, Maersk’s fifth dual-fuel methanol vessel, christened in Los Angeles at the end of August, participated in the methanol bunkering simulation conducted by Kokuka Sangyo’s methanol tanker, Eikamaru. To lay the foundation for future methanol bunkering, the involved parties collaborated to test key operations, including berthing, unberthing, and hose connections.
Japan is currently in the process of developing methanol fuel bunkering guidelines. Insights gained from this initiative will serve as valuable references in establishing these guidelines and in developing methanol fuel supply infrastructure and processes in Japan.
The bunkering simulation is considered to mark a significant development following Maersk’s Memorandum of Understanding with the City of Yokohama and Mitsubishi Gas Chemical on the development of methanol bunkering infrastructure in Yokohama. This initiative also receives support from additional stakeholders, including the Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport, and Tourism’s Port and Harbour Bureau.
Nakagawa Kenzo, Director of Industrial Port Policy Division, Ports and Harbours Bureau, said: The Ports and Harbours Bureau of the Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism has announced plans to convene a study group to explore the development of methanol bunkering hubs in Japan. Establishing methanol bunkering hubs in our ports is vital, and we will accelerate discussions, leveraging the insights from this simulation.”
Yasuhiro Shimbo, Director General of the Port and Harbour Bureau in the City of Yokohama, expressed his appreciation to Maersk for facilitating the bunkering simulation on the Alette Maersk. He stressed that the port of Yokohama is dedicated to developing methanol bunkering capabilities and contributing to the decarbonisation of both Japanese and international maritime transport. Masahiko Naito, Division Director of the C1 Chemicals Division, believes this is a big step towards implementing actual methanol bunkering and achieving carbon neutrality in Japan. He expressed excitement about today’s successful collaboration with multiple partners.
Toru Nishiyama, Maersk MD Northeast Asia, said: “It is an honour to participate in the very first simulation of methanol bunkering in Japan. Maersk is committed to a decarbonised future, and it is our great pleasure to support Japan’s ambition in decarbonising the shipping and energy sectors. We look forward to collaborating with the broader industry and ecosystem in Japan to accelerate the adoption and development of lower-emission practices in this country.”
Image: ‘Alette Maersk’ and ‘Eikamaru’ simulate methanol bunkering at the Port of Yokohama (source: A.P. Moller–Maersk)
