China presents its first large methanol dual-fuel containership
China Launches First Methanol Dual-Fuel Containership
China has unveiled its first domestic 16,136 TEU methanol dual-fuel containership, named COSCO Shipping Yangpu. The naming ceremony took place on February 18, 2025, at COSCO Shipping Heavy Industry in Yangzhou. This new vessel marks a significant step forward in COSCO Shipping Lines‘ commitment to green and low-carbon shipping solutions. The ship’s construction highlights the company’s efforts to develop an alternative fuels-powered fleet, aligning with global trends toward sustainability in maritime transport.
Innovative Features and Environmental Impact
The COSCO Shipping Yangpu measures 366 meters in length and 51 meters in width. It boasts several environmentally friendly features, including an ultra-large methanol storage tank. This tank enables the vessel to complete a one-way journey from the Far East to the West Coast of the United States using methanol as fuel. Such capabilities are crucial for reducing carbon emissions in the shipping industry.
Additionally, the ship is equipped with a digital intelligent system that optimizes energy consumption and carbon reduction. This technology enhances energy utilization efficiency, setting a new benchmark for the industry. As global regulations tighten and the demand for cleaner shipping solutions grows, the COSCO Shipping Yangpu exemplifies the shift toward sustainable maritime practices.
In 2024, China’s shipowners invested $123 billion in new ship orders, with containerships accounting for approximately 38% of the total. COSCO Shipping Lines ranked second in this investment, committing $3.06 billion to 18 new Panamax containerships. The company has 28 methanol-fueled boxships on order, including twelve 24,000 TEU units and sixteen 14,000 TEU vessels. As the world’s largest shipbuilder by market share, China is not only pursuing international alternative fuels projects but also expanding its own fleet of alternative-fueled vessels.
By the end of 2024, over 2,100 clean fuels-powered vessels were operating globally, driven by stricter regulations and improved financial mechanisms for green shipping. The COSCO Shipping Yangpu is a testament to the industry’s commitment to sustainability and innovation.
