On 18 September, 2024, A.P. Moller – Maersk co-hosted the Japan’s first methanol bunkering simulation at the Port of Yokohama.
The simulation involved Maersk’s fifth dual-fuel methanol vessel, the Alette Maersk, and Kokuka Sangyo’s methanol tanker, Eikamaru, and tested crucial operations such as berthing and hose connections. This collaboration aims to lay the groundwork for methanol fuel infrastructure, supporting Japan’s efforts to develop methanol bunkering guidelines.
This milestone follows a Memorandum of Understanding between Maersk, the City of Yokohama, and Mitsubishi Gas Chemical to develop methanol bunkering infrastructure in the port.
The initiative is also supported by Japan’s Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport, and Tourism’s Port and Harbor Bureau, which plans to accelerate the establishment of methanol bunkering hubs based on insights from the simulation.
Leaders from Maersk, the Port Bureau, and Mitsubishi Gas Chemical expressed their commitment to advancing carbon-neutral fuel solutions and supporting Japan’s decarbonization goals for maritime transport. NAKAGAWA Kenzo, Director of the Industrial Port Policy Division, highlighted the importance of establishing methanol bunkering hubs and expressed gratitude to all involved parties.
Additionally, Yasuhiro Shimbo, Director General of Yokohama’s Port and Harbor Bureau, appreciated Maersk’s role in supporting decarbonization efforts. Masahiko Naito from Mitsubishi Gas Chemical emphasized the collaboration’s importance for carbon neutrality, while Toru Nishiyama of Maersk underscored the company’s commitment to supporting Japan’s decarbonization goals in the maritime sector.
