.
The first large methanol-powered deep-sea vessel, the ‘Ane Maersk,’ docking at the Port of Antwerp-Bruges. This pioneering vessel, calling at the MSC PSA European Terminal (MPET), completed its first bunker operation in European waters, receiving 4,300 tons of green methanol and 1,375 tons of biodiesel (B100) during its port stay. The seamless and efficient bunkering operation signifies a remarkable achievement for the Port of Antwerp-Bruges in its journey towards becoming a multifuel port.
Efficient Bunkering Process
The call at the Antwerp port is part of the ‘Ane Maersk’s’ maiden voyage from South Korea to China, powered by green methanol. Constructed by Hyundai Heavy Industries in South Korea, the vessel boasts a nominal capacity of 16,000 containers (TEU) and features a dual-fuel engine enabling operations on methanol, biodiesel, and conventional bunker fuel. ‘Ane Maersk’ leads the fleet of 18 large methanol-enabled vessels set to be delivered by Maersk between 2024 and 2025, marking it as the world’s second methanol-enabled container vessel.
The bunkering operation, conducted at the MPET terminal, was flawlessly executed amidst terminal operations. Two barges dispatched by TankMatch facilitated the transfer of 4,300 tons of green methanol to the ‘Ane Maersk.’ Subsequently, a barge from VT Group delivered 1,375 tons of biodiesel (B100). This integrated bunkering process, conducted simultaneously with cargo on- and off-loading, exemplifies efficiency, reducing additional time allocation for refueling. Such streamlined operations underscore the collaborative efforts of multiple stakeholders involved in this groundbreaking endeavor.
Towards a Multifuel Port
For the Port of Antwerp-Bruges, this achievement aligns with its ambition to evolve into a multifuel port, offering various climate-neutral fuels such as hydrogen, ammonia, methane, and methanol for bunkering. This aspiration builds upon the success of the port’s first methanol bunkering operation in June 2023 when 475 metric tonnes of methanol were bunkered onto the tanker Stena Pro Marine. The port’s existing capacity to store climate-neutral fuels positions it favorably within the broader energy transition landscape.
Commitment to Sustainability and Innovation
Jacques Vandermeiren, CEO of Port of Antwerp-Bruges, emphasized the port’s commitment to pioneering the integration of climate-neutral fuels into the bunker market, ensuring safety protocols and implementing licensing systems for bunker operators. Annick De Ridder, President of the board of directors, reiterated the port’s ambition to inspire the maritime sector towards sustainability.
Industry Leaders’ Perspectives
Vincent Clerc, CEO of A.P. Moller-Maersk, highlighted the significance of deploying methanol-enabled vessels in achieving the company’s Net-Zero target, emphasizing the role of Port of Antwerp-Bruges in this journey. Emma Mazhari, Head of Energy Markets at A.P. Moller-Maersk, expressed gratitude for partners contributing to decarbonizing shipping and logistics.
Johan Van Daele, CEO of MSC PSA European Terminal (MPET), commended the efficient handling of the ‘Ane Maersk,’ showcasing the synergy between safety, efficiency, sustainability, and innovation. Andre Nieman, CEO of Tankmatch, and Niels Groenewold, CEO of VT Group, echoed sentiments of pride and commitment towards sustainable bunkering operations.
