Asia/Pacific News
Japanese Chemical Tanker Completes First Methanol Bunkering
A Japanese chemical tanker has completed its first methanol bunkering, using domestically produced bio-methanol as part of efforts to cut emissions from domestic shipping.
The 498 GT vessel, Kokuryu Maru, is operated by Kokuka Sangyo and chartered by Mitsubishi Gas Chemical (MGC), MGC said in an announcement on Friday.
The vessel is expected to primarily transport methanol domestically while also serving as a methanol bunkering vessel.
Built by Koa Sangyo, the vessel is equipped with a methanol-fuelled main engine manufactured by Hanshin Diesel Works. It is Kokuka Sangyo’s first dedicated methanol-fuelled vessel.
The first bunkering took place at Kinoe Port on September 24, with the fuel supplied including bio-methanol produced at MGC’s Niigata Plant.
The bio-methanol will be used as fuel during the vessel’s operations.
MGC said using methanol is expected to reduce CO2 emissions by about 17.5% compared with conventional heavy fuel oil.
The project was selected under a Japanese government programme supporting LNG and methanol fuel systems in the maritime sector.
Key Bunker Prices More
| VLSFO | MGO | |||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| $/mt | +/- | $/mt | +/- | |
| Singapore | 913.50 | 2.00 | 1254.00 | 24.50 |
| Rotterdam | 740.50 | 5.00 | 1392.50 | 2.50 |
| Houston | 767.50 | 3.50 | 1384.50 | 21.50 |
| Fujairah | 967.00 | 3.50 | 1606.50 | 117.50 |
| APAC Average | 1002.00 | 2.50 | 1470.50 | 4.50 |
| Global 20 Ports Average | 903.50 | 5.50 | 1525.00 | 8.50 |
| Global 4 Ports Average | 847.00 | 2.00 | 1409.00 | 42.00 |
| Global Average Bunker Price | 954.50 | 4.00 | 1601.00 | 0.00 |
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