Lloyd’s Register and Stena Line Partner to Retrofit Ferries with Methanol Propulsion

Building upon the groundbreaking success of the Stena Germanica in 2015, Lloyd’s Register (LR) and Stena Line are collaborating on an ambitious project to retrofit two fast roll-on/roll-off (RoRo) vessels with methanol propulsion systems. This initiative marks a significant step forward in the maritime industry’s efforts to reduce carbon emissions and enhance sustainability.

The Stena Superfast VII and Stena Superfast VIII ferries, which currently operate on the busy Scotland to Northern Ireland route between Cairnryan and Belfast, will undergo a transformative conversion. The project involves modifying two of the four main engines in each vessel to run on a dual-fuel system, combining methanol with Marine Gas Oil (MGO). Additionally, the ships’ bunkering, storage, fuel supply, and supporting systems will be adapted to accommodate methanol fuel.

The LR-classed Stena Germanica, the only vessel in service that has been retrofitted to run on methanol, will serve as a critical reference point for the conversion of the Superfast VII and VIII. This previous success provides a valuable foundation of knowledge and experience that LR and Stena Line will leverage to ensure the new project’s success.

Paul Herbert, Principal Technology Specialist at Lloyd’s Register, expressed his enthusiasm for the project, stating: “The project to retrofit the Stena Superfast VII and VIII with methanol dual-fuel propulsion underlines Stena Line Ferries and LR’s shared commitment to sustainability and the importance of embracing alternative fuels for a more sustainable future. Leveraging our expertise and experience gained from the successful conversion of the Stena Germanica in 2015, we are poised to deliver another groundbreaking solution that will pave the way for greener and more efficient ferry operations.”

Ian Hampton, COO Fleet & Government Affairs at Stena Line Ferries, emphasized the strategic importance of methanol in their decarbonization efforts: “As we continue to implement our strategy to decarbonise our operations, we still see methanol as a viable alternative fuel that will help us achieve this ambition. Lloyds Register with their knowledge and experience from supporting the conversion project of Stena Germanica nine years ago will once again be able to provide the necessary support with these retrofits of our existing tonnage. In the process, it will make them more sustainable by reducing CO2 emissions and encouraging the technology and development needed on our ongoing journey towards fossil free shipping.”

The conversion of the Stena Superfast VII and VIII represents a significant advancement in Stena Line’s ongoing efforts to promote greener shipping practices. By adopting methanol propulsion, the company aims to significantly reduce CO2 emissions and set a new standard for sustainable maritime operations. This project not only reinforces the successful partnership between LR and Stena Line but also underscores the maritime industry’s commitment to innovative solutions in the fight against climate change.