X-Press Feeders, one of the world’s largest independent common carrier, is set to revolutionize the maritime industry by introducing the world’s first feeder network powered by green methanol. The company plans to establish ‘green routes’ to the Scandinavia-Baltic region of northern Europe, marking a significant leap towards sustainable shipping practices.
Dual-Fuel Vessels Spearheading the Change
X-Press Feeders, operating a robust fleet of over 100 vessels, has ordered 14 dual-fuel vessels slated for delivery from the first quarter of next year to mid-2026. These vessels, each boasting a 1,200 TEU capacity and an overall length of 148 meters, will be the pioneers in utilizing green methanol as their primary fuel source.
The inaugural voyage is scheduled for the first quarter of next year when the first of the dual-fuel vessels, named Eco Maestro, embarks on its maiden journey from Shanghai to the Port of Rotterdam via the Suez Canal. Eco Maestro, the first bio-methanol powered ship built in China, underscores X-Press Feeders’ commitment to sustainability.
Challenges and Collaborative Solutions
While the commitment to green methanol is resolute, challenges arise in the form of limited infrastructure for methanol supply at various ports globally. Francis Goh, Chief Operating Officer of X-Press Feeders, acknowledges this challenge, stating, “Certain ports enroute have no infrastructure at present to supply methanol to ships, so we are engaging them to make it possible.”
The company views Eco Maestro’s maiden voyage not only as a practical demonstration of sustainable shipping but also as a call to action for industry stakeholders. Goh emphasizes the need for collaboration among shipping companies, regulators, port operators, fuel suppliers, logistics firms, and beneficial cargo owners (BCOs) to collectively establish the necessary infrastructure for sustainable shipping.
Eco Maestro’s Role in Sustainable Shipping
After its inaugural voyage, Eco Maestro will become an integral part of a feeder network based in the Port of Rotterdam. The green routes, commencing in the second quarter of next year, will connect Rotterdam to ports in Scandinavia and the Baltic states. X-Press Feeders stands out as the world’s first dedicated feeder carrier to operate a container vessel powered by green methanol, having secured a contract with Dutch fuel supplier OCI Global for methanol supply at the Port of Rotterdam from 2024.
Francis Goh, notes, “X-Press Feeders is most ideally suited to lead the maritime feeder sector in the adoption of green methanol because we operate smaller, more fuel-efficient vessels on short-sea routes.”
Environmental Impact and Emission Reduction
The adoption of green methanol is a strategic move aligned with X-Press Feeders’ commitment to reducing greenhouse gas emissions. The use of green methanol is expected to significantly cut CO2e emissions. Eco Maestro, in a round voyage service, is projected to save 268kg of CO2e emissions for every TEU carried, compared to conventional marine fuel.
In conclusion, X-Press Feeders’ bold initiative to embrace green methanol represents a pivotal step in the maritime industry’s journey toward sustainability. The company’s proactive approach, coupled with collaborative efforts across the industry, signals a promising future for environmentally conscious shipping practices
