Chinese company Shenergy has unveiled plans to build a facility aimed at transforming kitchen food waste into green methanol to serve as fuel for ships. It will be used on ships in China to reduce pollution in the shipping industry and increase efficiency.
In this regard, the South China Morning Post reported that Shenergy’s vice-president informed that the plant, with an estimated production capacity of 70,000 to 100,000 tons of methanol, will be operational by the end of 2025.
Advantages of green methanol as a fuel
The methanol is a colorless liquid used primarily for the manufacture of various chemicals such as formaldehyde, acetic acid and plastics, as well as serving as a source of motor fuel. Unlike traditional methanol, which is derived from fossil fuels fossil fuels This methanol is obtained from low-carbon sources, such as biomass or through carbon capture.
According to a 2023 World Economic Forum (WEF) report, clean methanol can reduce carbon dioxide emissions by 60% to 95%. The report also highlights that methanol completely eliminates emissions of sulfur oxides and particulate matter.
This alternative fuel can be blended with gasoline or diesel without requiring significant engine modifications, allowing it to be used in various types of vehicles.
Green methanol can also be used as a raw material for the production of other chemicals and materials, reducing the chemical industry’s dependence on fossil fuels. According to WEF projections, green methanol production could increase to 500 million tons by 2050, from the current 0.2 million tons per year. The International Renewable Energy Agency estimates that this could reduce the emission of 1.5 gigatons of carbon dioxide per year.
China’s new commitment to clean energy
China has been exploring various sources of alternative alternative energy to meet its growing energy demand. The country has focused its efforts on nuclear, hydroelectric and solar energy, among others, to cover its energy needs. Green methanol emerges as a valuable option for the maritime sector, contributing to sustainability and reduced operating costs.
The separated food waste can be used to produce fertilizer, methane gas and other useful oils for the industrial sector.
In addition, the Shenergy executive highlighted that they already have the necessary infrastructure for green methanol production and is confident that they could produce it at a cost “lower than the international standard”.
March, Shenergy signed a framework partnership agreement with The Hong Kong and China Gas Company Ltd (Towngas) to boost green energy business development in Shanghai, Hong Kong and other domestic and international markets. This agreement also includes increasing green methanol production capacity and exploring new markets, and Towngas has been producing green methanol in China for several years.
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Source: interestingengineering
Photo: Shutterstock
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