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Svitzer, Robert Allan to design world’s first methanol hybrid fuel cell tug

Tug will use an electrical propulsion system with methanol fuel cells and batteries; secondary methanol fuelled generators will provide backup power if required without need for a secondary bunker fuel.

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Svitzer, a global towage provider and part of A.P. Moller-Maersk, on Thursday (17 August) announced the launch of the second phase of its project to design the world’s first methanol hybrid fuel cell (MHFC) tug.  

Svitzer said it conducted technical studies to establish the feasibility of this type of vessel accommodating the real-world operational requirements of a tug. Work will now begin between Svitzer and leading naval architect company, Robert Allan Ltd. to design the world’s first methanol hybrid fuel cell (MHFC) tug. 

“The next phase will include work to complete the vessel design, scope considerations for vessel construction, and onboard equipment selection necessary to build the vessel,” the firm said in a statement. 

The MHFC tug will use an electrical propulsion system with methanol fuel cells and batteries delivering a self-sustained tug with longer endurance and fewer operational constraints than a purely battery-powered vessel. Secondary methanol fuelled generators will provide backup power if required without the need for a secondary fuel. 

Calculations indicate that the MHFC tug running on green methanol would prevent approximately 1,300 tonnes of CO2 annually from being emitted into the atmosphere, compared to fossil-fuel-based vessels of the same dimensions within Svitzer’s global fleet.  

The design of the MHFC tug will be a joint project between Svitzer and Robert Allan Ltd. using Svitzer’s TRAnsverse tug design as the platform. Svitzer will look to forge partnerships with other companies to finalise the selection of onboard equipment, such as the batteries and fuel cell system, and to support construction once the design phase is complete. 

Gareth Prowse, Head of Decarbonisation at Svitzer, said: “We’re excited to enter the next phase of delivering the world’s first methanol hybrid fuel cell tug. This project is a major milestone in Svitzer’s commitment to the decarbonisation of our global fleet and demonstrates our ability to harness new technologies and alternative fuels to deliver innovations that will have a significant, positive impact on shipping’s road to net zero.” 

“The combination of fuel cell technology and green methanol will result in improved operational efficiencies, resulting in less fuel consumption and lower emissions. We’re delighted to be collaborating with Robert Allan Ltd. to design the MHFC tug and look forward to bringing on new partners to construct the vessel which will operate at the Port of Gothenburg in Sweden.”  

The MHFC is expected to enter operations in the second half of 2025 at the Port of Gothenburg in Sweden, where methanol is the low-carbon alternative fuel of choice. 

Göran Eriksson, Port of Gothenburg CEO, said: “The Port of Gothenburg has set ambitious targets to reduce shipping emissions within the port area by 70% by 2030. To deliver on that ambition, the transition of shipping lines from fossil fuels to more sustainable fuels such as green methanol is critically important.”

“Svitzer’s decision to design and construct the world’s first methanol hybrid fuel cell tug is a major milestone which sets the example for the long-term decarbonisation of global towage services. We’re excited to welcome this pioneering new vessel to the Port of Gothenburg when it enters into operation in 2025.” 

Mathias Jonasson, Managing Director for Scandinavia & Germany at Svitzer, said: “Svitzer has been delivering safe and efficient towage services to customers in the Port of Gothenburg for decades. In addition to its ambitious emission reduction targets, the Port of Gothenburg has already gathered valuable experiences regarding the safe and convenient bunkering of methanol. The port’s experience and position as an emerging methanol bunker hub, combined with our long-standing collaboration and relationship, makes the Port of Gothenburg an obvious location for us to deploy the world’s first methanol hybrid fuel cell tug.” 

Jim Hyslop Director, Project Development Principle at Robert Allan Ltd., said: “Robert Allan Ltd. is excited to be working with Svitzer to develop the world’s first Methanol Hybrid Fuel Cell Tug. Based on the award-winning TRAnsverse design, the innovative propulsion system on this new tug will enable operation completely free of fossil fuels. This is a major step forward in the path to decarbonising the tug industry, and we are extremely proud to be at the forefront of developments in these new technologies.”

 

Photo credit: Svitzer
Published: 18 August, 2023

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Port & Regulatory

Singapore: MPA issues circular on resolutions adopted by IMO MEPC 84

MPA urges the shipping community to prepare for the implementation of these resolutions, which includes use of multiple engine operational profiles for a marine diesel engine.

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The Maritime and Port Authority of Singapore (MPA) on Tuesday (14 July) issued Shipping Circular No. 7 of 2026 to inform on the resolutions adopted by MEPC 84, which was held from 27 April to 1 May 2026:

This circular informs the shipping community of the resolutions adopted by MEPC 84 and urges the shipping community to prepare for the implementation of these resolutions.

MEPC 84 adopted the following mandatory resolutions:

  • Resolution MEPC.407(84) – Amendments to MARPOL Annex VI (Clarification of entries in data reporting required by Regulations 27 and 28, designation of the North-East Atlantic as an Emission  Control Area for Nitrogen Oxides, Sulphur Oxides and Particulate Matter, accessibility to the IMO Ship Fuel Oil Consumption Database, and review clause of the short-term GHG reduction measure)

This resolution adopts amendments to MARPOL Annex VI, concerning the clarification of entries in data reporting required by regulations 27 and 28, the designation of the North-East Atlantic as an Emission Control Area for Sulphur Oxides, Particulate Matter and Nitrogen Oxides, the accessibility of the IMO Ship Fuel Oil Consumption Database (IMO DCS), and the review clause of the short-term GHG reduction measure. The amendments will enter into force on 1 September 2027 and will be given effect through the Prevention of Pollution of the Sea (Air) Regulations.

  • Resolution MEPC.408(84) – Amendments to MARPOL Annex VI (Use of multiple engine operational profiles for a marine diesel engine, including clarifying engine test cycles)

This resolution adopts amendments to MARPOL Annex VI concerning the use of multiple engine operational profiles for a marine diesel engine, including clarifying the engine test cycles. The amendments will enter into force on 1 September 2027 and will be given effect through the Prevention of Pollution of the Sea (Air) Regulations.

MEPC 84 also adopted the following resolutions:

  • Resolution MEPC.406(84) – Actions to ensure the protection of the marine environment in the Arabian Sea, Sea of Oman and the Gulf Region, particularly in and around the Strait of Hormuz, resulting from the unlawful activities of the Islamic Republic of Iran

This resolution condemns the attacks against commercial and merchant vessels and maritime infrastructure in the Gulf region. The resolution expresses deep concern over the risks these attacks pose to the marine environment, while encouraging member States to strengthen pollution preparedness and response cooperation.

  • Resolution MEPC.409(84) – 2026 Guidelines for Ballast Water Management (BWM) and Development of BWM Plans (G4)

This resolution adopts the 2026 Guidelines for BWM and development of BWM Plans, as part of the BWM Convention review. The Committee resolves to revoke the Guidelines for ballast water management and development of BWM Plans adopted by resolution MEPC.127(53) and amended by resolutions MEPC.306(73) and MEPC.370(80) when the amendments to the BWM Convention approved at MEPC 84 enter into force.

  • Resolution MEPC.410(84) – Amendments to the 2022 Guidelines on the Method of Calculation of the Attained Energy Efficiency Design Index (EEDI) for New Ships

This resolution adopts the amendments to the 2022 Guidelines on the method of calculation of the attained EEDI for new ships, to address dual-fuel engines using two liquid fuels, particularly methanol and ethanol, in the EEDI framework.

  • Resolution MEPC.411(84) – 2026 Guidelines on Survey and Certification of EEDI

This resolution adopts the 2026 Guidelines on survey and certification of the EEDI, to address dual-fuel engines using two liquid fuels, particularly methanol and ethanol, in the EEDI framework.

These Guidelines supersede the 2022 Guidelines on survey and certification of the EEDI (resolution MEPC.365(79), as amended by resolutions MEPC.374(80) and MEPC.403(83)).

  • Resolution MEPC.412(84) – Amendments to the 2022 Guidelines on Operational Carbon Intensity Indicators and the Calculation Methods (CII Guidelines, G1)

This resolution adopts the amendments to the 2022 CII Guidelines, G1, relating to the clarification of CII calculation obligations in the context of enhanced IMO DCS granularity reporting, specifically on “Transport work (W)”.

  • Resolution MEPC.413(84) – Amendments to the 2024 Guidelines for the development of a Ship Energy Efficiency Management Plan (2024 SEEMP Guidelines)

This resolution adopts amendments to the 2024 SEEMP Guidelines, relating to the clarification of CII calculation obligations in the context of enhanced IMO DCS granularity reporting, specifically on the “Distance travelled”.

  • Resolution MEPC.414(84) – 2026 Guidelines for test-bed and onboard measurements of methane (CH4) and/or nitrous oxide (N2O) emissions from marine diesel engines

This resolution adopts the 2026 Guidelines for test-bed and onboard measurements of methane (CH4) and/or nitrous oxide (N2O) emissions from marine diesel engines, and supersede the earlier Guidelines adopted by resolution MEPC.402(83).

  • Resolution MEPC.415(84) – Guidelines for engine load monitoring (ELM) and calculation of emission values

This resolution adopts the Guidelines for ELM and calculation of emission values, to specify the method for ELM to establish factors that reflect the actual operation of a marine diesel engine, and for the calculation of emission values.

  • Resolution MEPC.416(84) – Guidelines for continuous emission monitoring systems (CEMS) used to quantify methane (CH4) and/or nitrous oxide (N2O) emissions from marine diesel engines

This resolution adopts the Guidelines for CEMS used to quantify methane (CH4) and/or nitrous oxide (N2O) emissions from marine diesel engines, which aim to provide a uniform framework for the onboard measurement and mass basis quantification of emissions.

  • Resolution MEPC.417(84) – 2026 Strategy and the Action Plan to Address Marine Plastic Litter from Ships

This resolution adopts the 2026 Strategy and the Action Plan to Address Marine Plastic Litter from Ships.

Any queries relating to this circular should be directed to MPA Shipping Division via email at [email protected].

 

Photo credit: Maritime and Port Authority of Singapore
Published: 14 July, 2026

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Alternative Fuels

Port of Santos hosts Brazil’s first bioethanol bunkering of deep-sea containership

Copersucar, CMA CGM Group, AGEO Terminais, Santos Brasil and Bunker One completed a bioethanol bunkering operation for “CMA CGM IRON”, the first 13,000 TEU tri-fuel certified engine containership.

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Port of Santos hosts Brazil's first bioethanol bunkering of deep-sea containership

Sugar and bioethanol trading company Copersucar on Monday (13 July) said the company and its partners successfully completed a bioethanol bunkering operation for the CMA CGM IRON, the first 13,000 TEU tri-fuel certified engine containership, at the Port of Santos on 12 July.

The partners are CMA CGM Group, AGEO Terminais, the largest liquid bulk storage operator at the Port of Santos; Santos Brasil, the biggest container terminal in Brazil; and Bunker Holding subsidiary Bunker One. 

Copersucar said the operation represents a major milestone for the decarbonisation of maritime transport, positions Brazil among the countries capable of carrying out this type of bunkering operation, and reinforces bioethanol as a readily available solution to reduce greenhouse gas emissions from the shipping sector.

The bioethanol supplied by Copersucar benefits from a certified supply chain. Sugarcane expansion takes place mainly on degraded pastureland, while Brazil’s RenovaBio program establishes stringent sustainability and zero-deforestation requirements.

The bunkering required logistical and operational coordination among multiple stakeholders across the value chain, involving the transport of bioethanol to the Port of Santos, its storage in dedicated infrastructure, and its transfer to the vessel via a specialized barge.

“The operation provides practical evidence that bioethanol offers the attributes needed to accelerate the decarbonisation of maritime transport,” the company said. 

Beyond this first demonstration, the Port of Santos and Santos Brasil container terminal are positioning themselves and Brazil as a future low-carbon marine fuels hub for South America. As the continent’s largest port and a major gateway for global trade, Santos has the potential to connect Brazil’s renewable energy resources with international shipping demand. 

The CMA CGM IRON, delivered in 2025, is the Group’s first vessel in a series of twelve 13,000 TEU containerships, equipped with the world’s first tri-fuel engine certified to operate on bioethanol: Everllence-B&W G95ME-C10.5-LGIM.

“Together with our partners, we have shown that innovation can move from the laboratory to real maritime operations. The certification of our first tri-fuel vessel is a major technological milestone for CMA CGM. It opens the way for the broader use of lower-carbon fuels and gives us new options to accelerate the decarbonisation of our shipping activities” said Christine Cabau Woehrel, Executive Vice President Assets & Operations, CMA CGM.

“This operation demonstrates Copersucar’s ability to connect production, logistics and markets to enable bioenergy solutions at scale. More than a pioneering bunkering operation, we are creating the conditions for bioethanol to become a competitive component of the maritime energy mix, further strengthening Brazil’s leadership in the transition to a low-carbon economy,” said Tomás Manzano, CEO of Copersucar.

“This operation can be considered a milestone in the global maritime industry’s energy transition, as the sector begins to adapt to this new model. Today, Around 70 vessels of the global fleet are capable of operating on methanol and, consequently, with bioethanol. Over the next few years, however, an additional 400 vessels are expected to be delivered from shipyards ready to sail using a non-fossil fuel,” said Flavio Ribeiro, CEO of Bunker One.

 

Photo credit: Copersucar
Published: 14 July, 2026

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Alternative Fuels

Peninsula supplies bio-LNG bunker fuel to Royal Caribbean cruise ship

Company has successfully completed the delivery of bio-LNG to Royal Caribbean Group’s newest Icon-class cruise ship, “Legend of the Seas”, in Cádiz, Spain.

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Peninsula completes delivery of bioLNG bunker fuel to Royal Caribbean cruise ship

Marine fuel supplier Peninsula on Monday (13 July) said it has successfully completed the delivery of bio-LNG to Royal Caribbean Group’s newest Icon-class cruise ship, Legend of the Seas, in Cádiz, Spain.

This marked Peninsula’s first bioLNG distribution in the Port of Cádiz. The milestone was met with amplified significance as the company has now supplied all three Icon-class vessels, further strengthening its long-standing relationship with Royal Caribbean Group.

Nacho de Miguel, Head of Alternative Fuels and Sustainability at Peninsula, said: “This supply highlights the strength of our planning, coordination and execution at scale. As cruise operators introduce increasingly advanced vessels, our focus remains on delivering safe, reliable and efficient fuel supply, aligned with evolving operational and environmental demands.”

The delivery was carried out through coordination with all stakeholders, including the Port of Cadiz and Royal Caribbean Group. 

 

Photo credit: Peninsula
Published: 14 July, 2026

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