The Port of Antwerp-Bruges in Belgium has achieved a significant milestone in its journey to becoming a versatile multi-fuel port. On June 1st, the port witnessed its first-ever methanol bunkering operation, marking a significant step forward in promoting alternative fuels in the maritime industry.
During this inaugural event, a total of 475 metric tonnes of methanol were bunkered from barge Tamariva to Proman Stena Marine at Sea-invest’s terminal. Proman Stena Bulk, a pioneering joint venture between Stena Bulk and Proman, has emerged as one of the industry’s frontrunners in adopting methanol as a marine fuel.
Currently, the annual volume of conventional fuels, such as low-sulfur oil or gas oil, bunkered at the Port of Antwerp-Bruges amounts to 6 million metric tonnes. However, with this successful methanol bunkering, the port is actively reinforcing its global position as a leading bunkering port while establishing a robust framework for the utilization of alternative fuels such as LNG, ammonia, hydrogen, and methanol. The ultimate objective is to transform the port into a versatile multi-fuel hub.
In a concise update shared on social media, the port expressed its commitment to this endeavor, stating, “With this significant milestone, we continue to strengthen our global standing as a bunkering port by proactively promoting and developing a well-defined framework for the adoption of alternative fuels. Our aim is to become a multi-fuel port.”
As previously announced, the Port of Antwerp-Bruges is steadfast in its ambition to transform into a fully-fledged multi-fuel port by 2025. In addition to accommodating conventional fuels, the port aims to provide bunkering facilities for low-carbon alternatives like methanol, hydrogen, and electricity, catering to both seagoing and inland vessels.
The recent surge in interest surrounding methanol-powered vessels within the shipping industry underscores methanol’s significant advantage as a globally available, cleaner marine fuel. Its established net-zero pathway enables shipowners to invest in vessels that are future-proofed and aligned with sustainability goals.
With these developments, the Port of Antwerp-Bruges continues its commitment to driving sustainable practices in the maritime sector, fostering the transition towards cleaner and more environmentally friendly fuel options.
Source Port of Antwerp-Bruges