Bureau Veritas Launches First Methanol Dual-Fuel Ship
Bureau Veritas Marine & Offshore (BV) has achieved a significant milestone by classifying its inaugural methanol dual-fueled container ship, the CMA CGM ANTIGONE. This new vessel, built for the CMA CGM Group, was officially named on December 11 and delivered the following day. The CMA CGM ANTIGONE represents a pivotal advancement in the maritime industry’s shift towards more sustainable fuel alternatives.
Innovative Design and Construction
The CMA CGM ANTIGONE is a 15,000 TEU container ship constructed by CSSC Jiangnan Shipyard in China. It is the first of its kind to be powered by methanol dual-fuel propulsion, a technology that significantly reduces nitrogen oxide (NOx) emissions and nearly eliminates sulfur oxide (SOx) emissions. This innovative design positions the vessel to meet the International Maritime Organization’s (IMO) 2030 emissions reduction targets ahead of schedule.
Prior to the ship’s launch, Bureau Veritas assembled a specialized team of experts in gas-carrier and alternative fuels. This team provided essential training for BV surveyors and the CMA CGM project team, ensuring compliance with upcoming international regulations. BV’s comprehensive approach included a technical review and risk assessment focused on critical areas such as ship design and fuel system safety. During construction, BV surveyors implemented refined process controls and conducted targeted inspections to enhance fire safety, ventilation, and explosion-proof systems, thereby reinforcing the vessel’s overall safety.
Matthieu de Tugny, Executive Vice President at Bureau Veritas, emphasized the importance of this delivery, stating, “The CMA CGM ANTIGONE marks a significant step forward in adopting methanol as an alternative marine fuel for large container vessels.” He noted that this achievement underscores BV’s commitment to supporting shipowners and builders in the transition to low-carbon solutions.
Collaboration and Future Prospects
The CMA CGM ANTIGONE is 366 meters long and serves as the lead vessel in CSSC Jiangnan Shipyard’s Kun series of methanol dual-fuel container ships. The successful construction and delivery of this ship are attributed to the collaborative efforts of all project partners, including Jiangnan Shipyard, China Shipbuilding Trading Co., Ltd., and CMA CGM Group.
Xavier Leclercq, Vice President of New Building at CMA Ships, expressed gratitude for the teamwork involved in the project. He stated, “We extend our sincere gratitude to Jiangnan Shipyard and China State Shipbuilding Corporation for their excellent collaboration and strong support throughout the entire construction process.” This partnership highlights the industry’s collective effort to embrace sustainable practices and pave the way for a greener future in maritime transport.
As the maritime sector continues to explore alternative fuels, the CMA CGM ANTIGONE stands as a testament to innovation and environmental responsibility, setting a new standard for future vessels.
