Maersk Launches First Large Green Methanol Vessel
A.P. Moller-Maersk is preparing to deploy Ane Maersk, the world’s first large-scale container vessel powered by green methanol capable of long-distance ocean travel. Built by South Korean shipbuilder HD Hyundai Heavy Industries, the 350-meter vessel will begin operations in February, serving routes connecting Asia, the Middle East, and Europe. With a capacity of over 16,500 TEUs, Maersk’s move marks a major step toward reducing shipping emissions.
The company has set an ambitious goal: by 2030, it aims for 25% of its freight to be transported using green fuels. To support this, Maersk has committed to purchasing 500,000 tons of green methanol annually from China and is investing heavily in developing alternative energy sources such as ammonia and vessel electrification. These efforts are part of Maersk’s broader strategy to achieve net-zero emissions by 2040.
Industry-wide, the transition is gaining momentum, with more than 150 ships with alternative fuel capabilities on order through 2027. However, scaling green methanol production remains a significant challenge, as current output can only meet a fraction of the global demand needed to fully replace fossil fuels by 2050. Leading shipbuilders like HD Hyundai believe the demand for eco-friendly vessels will rise sharply as shipping companies accelerate their sustainability efforts, although the industry is still in the early stages of this transition.
This milestone reflects a broader shift within the maritime sector, driven by increasing pressure from regulators, customers, and environmental advocates to cut emissions. While hurdles remain, Maersk’s pioneering use of green methanol demonstrates a tangible step toward a more sustainable future for global shipping.
