Hamburg-based MPC Capital AG celebrates christening of eco-friendly vessels at HJ Shipbuilding & Construction
Hamburg, August 31, 2023 – In a significant step towards maritime sustainability, MPC Capital AG, an asset and investment manager headquartered in Hamburg, has recently conducted a christening ceremony for two cutting-edge green methanol-ready containerships. The event took place at the renowned HJ Shipbuilding & Construction (HJSC) yard located in Busan on August 30. The vessels, named ZIM DANUBE and ZIM GANGES, mark a collaborative effort between MPC Capital and its partner Ocean Yield, with the ship order initially placed in 2021.
Designed with an emphasis on reducing environmental impact, these eco-friendly containerships offer a remarkable 40% reduction in fuel consumption. They are uniquely engineered to facilitate future conversion to carbon-neutral operations through the utilization of green methanol. This design approach aligns with the International Maritime Organisation’s (IMO) stringent EEDI-Phase 3 and NOx Tier III standards.
Israel-based shipowner ZIM Integrated Shipping Services (ZIM) is set to benefit from these innovations, as both vessels are slated for a 7-year charter upon their delivery. This partnership not only promotes sustainable shipping practices but also supports the industry’s shift towards cleaner energy sources.
HJSC’s re-entry into the market in August 2021, following changes in its ownership structure, has led to transformative advancements. The order for the green methanol-ready containerships, valued at $270 million, was a significant achievement for the shipbuilder. Subsequently, the company has concentrated on securing orders for environmentally conscious commercial vessels, successfully procuring contracts for 10 mid-to-large-sized eco-friendly containerships to date.
The firm’s commitment to sustainable solutions extended to a deal signed in June 2022 with a European shipowner for the construction of two LNG-powered boxships. In addition, HJSC’s recent contract with HMM in February of this year, worth KRW 316.7 billion ($1.12 billion), marked the construction of two 9,000 TEU class methanol-powered container ships. This choice of fuel aligns with environmental goals, emitting significantly lower levels of carbon, nitrogen oxides, and sulfur oxides compared to conventional alternatives.
The christening of ZIM DANUBE and ZIM GANGES stands as a testament to the maritime industry’s growing commitment to sustainable practices. With shipbuilders like HJSC leading the charge in innovation, these developments highlight the sector’s progress towards a greener and more responsible future.
