Maersk secures biomethanol supply with LONGi for its sustainable fleet

The biomethanol supplied will come from agricultural waste such as straw and fruit tree trimmings.

Published: November 2, 2024

Share on social networks

Maersk, one of the world’s leading shipping companies, has signed a long-term agreement with LONGi Green Energy Technology Co., Ltd., a renowned energy technology manufacturer in China. This contract will allow Maersk to source biomethanol produced from agricultural waste , such as straw and fruit tree prunings, from a plant in Xu Chang, central China.

Agreement for the use of biomethanol

The agreement reflects Maersk ‘s interest in reducing greenhouse gas emissions from its dual-fuel vessel fleet, which already has seven units in operation. With the biomethanol volumes secured through the contract with LONGi, the Danish company covers more than 50% of the demand of its dual-fuel methanol fleet projected for 2027.

According to Rabab Raafat Boulos, Chief Operating Officer at Maersk, the engagement with LONGi reaffirms the relevance of biomethanol and e-methanol as viable options to reduce the carbon footprint of shipping.

LONGi’s production facility in Xu Chang will be instrumental in supplying Maersk with biomethanol that meets the company’s sustainability standards, which require a minimum 65% reduction in greenhouse gas emissions compared to fossil fuels . Emma Mazhari, Head of Energy Markets at Maersk, highlighted China’s pioneering role in this area, as well as the growth of projects in the United States, where they are also participating in sustainable fuel initiatives.

A call for global regulation of green fuels

Maersk is also working with the International Maritime Organization (IMO) to create regulation that promotes the use of sustainable fuels, as well as a pricing strategy that drives the adoption of clean energy options in the industry.