Global Maritime Forum Advocates for Methanol and Ammonia as Viable Shipping Fuels

What's Happening?

The Global Maritime Forum's Getting to Zero Coalition has released a report indicating significant progress in the adoption of methanol and ammonia as alternative shipping fuels. The report highlights that these fuels have matured considerably since 2020, with methanol moving from proof of concept to early scale, evidenced by over 60 methanol-capable vessels in operation and 300 more on order. Ammonia is approaching proof of concept, with successful engine tests and pilot vessels. The report emphasizes the need for substantial support to transition these fuels from pilot stages to maturity, aiming for rapid scaling by 2030 to meet industry decarbonization targets.

Why It's Important?

The adoption of methanol and ammonia as shipping fuels is crucial for the maritime industry's decarbonization efforts. Methanol, despite its lower energy density, is relatively easy to integrate and retrofit, while ammonia offers significant emissions reductions. However, challenges remain, such as the availability of green methanol and the need for ammonia bunkering infrastructure. The report calls for policy incentives, funding, and robust fuel certification systems to support early adopters and create investment cases for bunkering infrastructure. These developments could significantly impact shipping companies, fuel suppliers, and regulatory bodies as they navigate compliance and sustainability goals.

What's Next?

The report suggests that achieving the industry's decarbonization goals will require targeted policy incentives and funding to close the cost gap for early adopters. Establishing harmonized fuel certification systems and aggregating fuel demand are necessary steps to develop bunkering infrastructure. The maritime industry must also address the fuel supply chain, enhancing the availability of green methanol and validating commercial ammonia bunkering at key ports. These actions are vital to create the enabling conditions for scaling zero-emission fuels at the required pace.