Maersk makes further step to support methanol bunkering standards in Japan

Yokohama, Japan – A.P.Moller – Maersk (Maersk) has taken a significant step towards supporting the development of methanol bunkering in Japan by co-hosting Japan’s first “methanol bunkering simulation” at the Port of Yokohama.

The Alette Maersk, Maersk’s fifth dual-fuel methanol vessel, christened in Los Angeles at the end of August, participated in the methanol bunkering simulation conducted by Kokuka Sangyo’s methanol tanker, Eikamaru. To lay the foundation for future methanol bunkering, the involved parties collaborated to test key operations, including berthing, unberthing, and hose connections.

Japan is currently in the process of developing methanol fuel bunkering guidelines. Insights gained from this initiative will serve as valuable references in establishing these guidelines and in developing methanol fuel supply infrastructure and processes in Japan.

Today’s bunkering simulation marks a significant development following Maersk’s Memorandum of Understanding with the City of Yokohama and Mitsubishi Gas Chemical on the development of methanol bunkering infrastructure in Yokohama. This initiative also receives support from additional stakeholders, including the Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport, and Tourism’s Port and Harbor Bureau.

NAKAGAWA Kenzo, Director of the Industrial Port Policy Division at the Ports and Harbours Bureau, expressed his gratitude to all parties involved in Japan’s first methanol bunkering simulation.

Yasuhiro SHIMBO, Director General of the Port and Harbor Bureau in the City of Yokohama, expressed his appreciation to Maersk for facilitating the bunkering simulation on the “Alette Maersk”. He stressed that the port of Yokohama is dedicated to developing methanol bunkering capabilities and contributing to the decarbonisation of both Japanese and international maritime transport.

Masahiko Naito, Division Director of the C1 Chemicals Division, believes this is a big step towards implementing actual methanol bunkering and achieving carbon neutrality in Japan. He expressed excitement about today’s successful collaboration with multiple partners.