Bureau Veritas classes its first methanol dual-fueled
Bureau Veritas Marine & Offshore (BV) has officially classified the CMA CGM ANTIGONE, marking a significant milestone as the first methanol-fueled containership in its fleet. Built by CSSC Jiangnan Shipyard, this 15,000 TEU vessel was named on December 11 and delivered the following day. The CMA CGM ANTIGONE is a pioneering addition to the shipping industry, showcasing advancements in sustainability and operational efficiency.
Innovative Design and Environmental Impact
The CMA CGM ANTIGONE is the lead vessel in the CSSC Jiangnan Shipyard’s “Kun” series, which features a total of 15,000 TEU-class methanol dual-fuel container ships. With an impressive overall length of 366 meters, this ship represents a new generation of large container vessels designed to enhance operational efficiency while significantly reducing environmental impact. Powered by methanol dual-fuel propulsion, the ship achieves notable reductions in nitrogen oxide (NOx) emissions and nearly eliminates sulfur oxide (SOx) emissions. This positions the CMA CGM ANTIGONE to meet the International Maritime Organization’s (IMO) 2030 emissions reduction targets ahead of schedule.
Prior to the project’s launch, BV established a specialized team of experts in gas-carrier and alternative fuels. This team provided essential training for BV surveyors and the client’s project team, ensuring compliance with upcoming international regulations. During the design phase, BV collaborated closely with Jiangnan Shipyard to optimize the vessel’s structural arrangements and fuel system integration. Advanced simulation tools were utilized to meet safety requirements while managing the vessel’s weight effectively.
In line with BV’s Rules for Methanol & Ethanol Fueled Ships, the organization conducted a thorough technical review and risk assessment focusing on critical areas such as ship design and fuel system safety. Throughout the construction process, BV surveyors implemented refined process controls and data-driven monitoring, conducting targeted inspections of fire safety, ventilation, and explosion-proof systems to enhance the vessel’s safety features.
CMA CGM and Maersk join forces to accelerate the decarbonization of the shipping industry
Collaboration and Future Prospects
Xavier Leclercq, Vice President of New Building at CMA Ships, expressed pride in the successful construction and delivery of the CMA CGM ANTIGONE, highlighting the collaborative efforts of all project partners, including Jiangnan Shipyard and Bureau Veritas. He emphasized the importance of teamwork in achieving this milestone and looks forward to future collaborations that promise a bright future for the shipping industry.
Hu Hongyu, Vice General Manager of CSSC Jiangnan Shipyard, echoed these sentiments, noting that the delivery of the CMA CGM ANTIGONE symbolizes the strong partnership between CMA CGM and Jiangnan Shipyard. He also acknowledged the support from various stakeholders, including Sinosure and the Export-Import Bank of China, and expressed optimism for continued innovation and cooperation in high-end manufacturing.
Matthieu de Tugny, Executive Vice President of Industrials and Commodities at Bureau Veritas, remarked that the delivery of the CMA CGM ANTIGONE is a significant advancement in the adoption of methanol as an alternative marine fuel for large container vessels. He reaffirmed Bureau Veritas’s commitment to supporting shipowners and builders in the safe and reliable deployment of low-carbon solutions across the global fleet.
