COSCO Shipping has taken a significant step towards sustainable maritime operations by naming its first methanol dual-fuel containership.
Following Maersk’s pioneering efforts, COSCO becomes only the second shipping line to introduce large-capacity methanol-fueled containerships.
The naming ceremony took place in Yangzhou, China, aligning with the ninth anniversary of COSCO Shipping’s reorganization into its current expansive, state-controlled entity.
During the event, Chinese officials highlighted the ship’s achievements, including COSCO Shipping Heavy Industry’s intensive research efforts.
The design and construction of the vessel were handled by COSCO Shipping Heavy Industry in Yangzhou. Engineers addressed complex challenges such as applying a special methanol coating and managing the overall jacking of the ship’s upper structure.
Innovations included establishing a methanol system test and creating a methanol filling management system.
The ships in this series boast cutting-edge features, including the first domestically produced WinGD methanol dual-fuel main engine, methanol dual-fuel generator, Alfa Laval’s methanol dual-fuel boiler, and a comprehensive methanol fuel barge and supply system.
Collaboration with China Marine Fuel Jiangsu Company resulted in the development of innovative bunkering systems, including terminal tank trucks.
The systems and processes were certified by the China Classification Society. The inaugural refueling took place on 26 December 2024 at the shipyard, marking a milestone in the ship’s journey.
The first vessel in this new class, named COSCO Shipping Yangpu, is currently being outfitted. It is set to become the first methanol-fueled containership to operate on a transpacific route.
Its advanced methanol storage system enables it to complete a one-way voyage between the Far East and the West Coast of the United States in “pure methanol mode.”
Each ship in this class can carry up to 16,136 TEUs, comparable to Maersk’s methanol-fueled class introduced in January 2024 with the ANE Maersk.
COSCO Shipping Yangpu measures 366m (1,200ft) in length with a beam of 51m (167ft). Construction on the first vessel began in April 2024, and the second ship of the class, COSCO Shipping Carnation, was floated in December 2024 at the COSCO Shipping Heavy Industries shipyard.
COSCO initially ordered 12 methanol ships with a capacity of 24,000 TEUs each in 2022, followed by an order for four methanol dual-fuel 16,000 TEU container ships in 2023.
Reports indicate that COSCO has now expanded its methanol order book to include a total of 28 vessels, underscoring its commitment to advancing greener shipping technologies.
