HD Hyundai launches world's first mega methanol-fueled container

South Korean shipbuilding giant HD Hyundai Co. marked a major milestone in the maritime industry on January 28, christening the world's first mega methanol-fueled container ship at its Ulsan shipyard.

The Ane Maersk, named after Ane Mærsk Mc-Kinney Uggla, the chairman of AP Moller Holdings and mother of Robert Mærsk Uggla, holds the distinction of being the first such vessel with a capacity exceeding 10,000 twenty-foot equivalent units (TEUs).

This landmark ship represents the first of 18 mega container ships ordered by Maersk from HD Hyundai in 2021, signaling a significant shift towards greener shipping practices.

The 16,200 TEU vessel marks a bold leap in vessel size for methanol propulsion, previously limited to smaller capacities.

Over 100 dignitaries, including HD Hyundai Vice Chairman Chung Ki-sun and Maersk Chairman Robert Mærsk Uggla, witnessed the momentous occasion.

Methanol ships are garnering traction as the next generation of environmentally friendly vessels.

Compared to their liquefied natural gas (LNG) counterparts, they boast lower carbon emissions and offer easier fuel storage.

This aligns perfectly with the International Maritime Organization's (IMO) 2030 target of a 40% reduction in greenhouse gas emissions from maritime activities.

Write to Sang Hoon Sung at uphoon@hankyung.com