Mabanaft, a key player in the energy sector, has revealed its ambitious plans to expand its operations at the Port of Hamburg by constructing a new methanol storage facility. This move underscores the company’s commitment to supporting the transition towards more sustainable and low-carbon fuels. By retrofitting existing tanks and building additional infrastructure, Mabanaft is positioning itself as a pivotal force in advancing the use of methanol in various industries, particularly in shipping and chemicals.
The project, which is expected to unfold in two stages, aims to enable the storage of up to 20,000 cubic meters of methanol. The first phase of tank conversions is set to be completed by mid-2026, with the full conversion slated for 2027. These tanks will play a crucial role in importing, storing, and distributing methanol across northern Germany, with potential plans to expand to other regions. This initiative is not only part of Mabanaft’s broader strategy to facilitate the transition to cleaner fuels but also addresses the growing demand for low-carbon alternatives in the transport and chemical industries.
Joost Vespermann, Business Developer at Mabanaft’s Sustainable Fuels division, highlighted the diverse production methods of low-carbon methanol, including e-methanol synthesis, biomethanol production, and blue methanol derived from natural gas. Vespermann emphasized that these various types of methanol could serve different market needs, with shipping as one of the first industries to adopt the fuel.
Shipping, as the largest sector to embrace methanol, presents both challenges and opportunities. According to Oleksandr Siromakha, Head of Sustainable Fuels at Mabanaft, the industry lacks a single solution for sustainable fuels. Thus, the company is focused on providing a broad range of options, including bio-blends, hydrogen, ammonia, and methanol, tailored to meet the diverse needs of its customers. This flexibility is critical as the industry navigates the challenges of decarbonization.
The company’s efforts are particularly focused on the European market, where Mabanaft has already taken steps to supply methanol to the cruise line sector. In January 2024, the company signed a letter of intent with TUI Cruises to supply green methanol for its fleet, further solidifying its position in the sustainable fuel market.
Mabanaft’s decision to invest heavily in methanol storage and distribution reflects its long-term commitment to helping its customers transition to greener, more sustainable energy solutions. The company’s multi-million-euro investment into this project, along with its cooperation with environmental authorities for necessary approvals, underscores its dedication to supporting the shipping industry and beyond in adopting low-carbon fuels.
This initiative at the Port of Hamburg represents a significant step forward in the company’s green energy strategy and aligns with broader global goals to reduce carbon emissions across multiple sectors.
