New fuel options are causing a divide among the top 10 carriers, as revealed by their orderbooks
1 month ago
New fuel options are causing a divide among the top 10 carriers, as revealed by their orderbooks
The top 10 largest container shipping lines are increasingly distancing themselves from traditional fuels, embracing alternatives such as LNG and methanol as part of their decarbonization strategies. Alphaliner notes that the orderbooks for vessels set for delivery from 2027 onwards are predominantly dominated by LNG and methanol-powered ships. However, major carriers such as China’s Cosco and Japan’s ONE remain slower to adopt these changes compared to others in the sector.
Maersk, in particular, has shifted its strategy. Initially steadfast in its commitment to methanol as the key fuel to meet its ambitious decarbonization goals, the company has now reversed course, indicating support for LNG as a viable pathway to reducing emissions. This shift comes as the debate between LNG and methanol continues to evolve within the industry, with both fuels offering "green" and "grey" variants. However, for methanol to provide net-zero emissions, a reliable supply of green methanol is essential, a factor that remains a challenge.
Source: The Loadstar