NYK places order for methanol-fueled VLCC

On April 4th, NYK concluded a contract for the construction and charter of a very large crude oil carrier (VLCC) equipped with a main engine that can use methanol as a fuel.

As informed, the vessel, which will also feature a large shaft generator, will be constructed by Nippon Shipyard and engaged in a long-term charter for Idemitsu Tanker. This vessel will be a Malacca max next-generation environment-friendly VLCC that NYK has been designing with Idemitsu Tanker, IINO Kaiun Kaisha, Ltd., and Nippon Shipyard.

Methanol is a fuel expected to lower greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions. According to NYK, it can reduce carbon dioxide (CO₂) emissions by about 15% compared to when heavy oil is used.

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Generally, methanol remains a promising alternative fuel for the maritime industry. For instance, according to DNV, a total of 25 new orders were placed for vessels powered by alternative fuels, with methanol leading the charge, accounting for 12 of these orders.