A conceptual image of the Zhejiang's first methanol bunkering vessel. [Photo/WeChat ID: gh_4b375b4969b5]

Construction began on a 6,670-deadweight-ton methanol bunkering vessel in Zhoushan, Zhejiang province, according to local media on Dec 24.

This vessel, invested in by Zhoushan Runji Shipping Co, is the first methanol bunkering ship in Zhejiang, marking a significant step forward for Zhoushan in the field of green energy ship bunkering.

The vessel is classified as a standard oil/chemical tanker by China Classification Society, designed to meet Zhoushan's requirements based on ship type. It features a double-bottom, double-hull structure and is equipped with dual systems for methanol bunkering and fuel oil bunkering. The ship is expected to be operational by the end of 2025.

In recent years, as global demand for reducing ship emissions and promoting green shipping has grown, methanol has emerged as a promising clean energy source for marine fuel.

Zhoushan places a high emphasis on the technological research and innovation of methanol bunkering vessels, encouraging enterprises to progress green shipping.