Klaipėda Port Authority Completes Concept Development for 800-Ton Green Methanol Bunkering Vessel

en.Wedoany.com Reported - The Klaipėda Port Authority, together with its partners, has completed the concept development of a green methanol bunkering vessel to meet the growing demand for alternative marine fuels amid the development of the Baltic Sea green shipping corridor.

The concept originates from the H2Deri@BSP project. Within the framework of this project, the Port Authority, together with 14 international partners, explored cleaner shipping solutions aimed at accelerating the adoption of hydrogen-based fuels and supporting the shipping industry's transition to zero emissions. The Port Authority conducted assessments covering future demand for green methanol, regulatory frameworks, potential customers, fuel supply chains, and environmental benefits.

Algis Latakas, CEO of the Port Authority, stated that the energy transition is reshaping the maritime industry, with rising market demand for cleaner fuel solutions and a corresponding need to adapt port infrastructure and services. Latakas noted that the port's proactive preparations are intended to meet market demand and maintain competitiveness as the Baltic Sea green shipping corridor gradually takes shape.

According to an analysis by Moffatt & Nichol Baltics, the Baltic green methanol market is still in its early stages, but ports capable of offering alternative fuel bunkering services may become increasingly attractive to shipping companies. For the Port of Klaipėda, green methanol bunkering is expected to generate new revenue streams and broaden the port's range of services. The study also noted that green hydrogen can be used to produce green methanol, and the port already has an operational green hydrogen production facility. Regional vessels, passenger ships, ferries, and vessels serving offshore wind farms could all represent potential sources of demand for green methanol.

The technical specifications and concept design of the proposed bunkering vessel have been completed by Western Baltic Engineering, part of the Western Shipyard Group operating at the Port of Klaipėda. The vessel is designed for flexible operation in shallow-water areas and on local bunkering routes; under the concept plan, it has a green methanol carrying capacity of 800 tons, with a potential annual supply volume of up to 250,000 tons.

Since 2024, the green methanol-powered container vessel Eco Umande, operated by Singapore-based X-Press Feeders, has been calling at the Port of Klaipėda. In addition, the Port of Klaipėda has signed cooperation agreements with several ports to support the development of green methanol infrastructure.

Latakas concluded that green methanol bunkering holds realistic potential both in Klaipėda and across the broader Baltic Sea region.