Proman Stena Bulk Launches Last of Six Methanol-Fueled Tankers

Proman Stena Bulk has christened the Stena Prosperous, the last of six methanol-fueled tankers ordered by the joint venture between tanker company Stena Bulk and Proman, a leading methanol producer.

The ceremony took place at the Marina Bay Cruise Centre in Singapore.

On Friday, the 49,000 dwt vessel received 1,340 metric tonnes of blended methanol via a ship-to-ship transfer with the MT Kara in the Port of Singapore. Proman Stena Bulk said the 20/80 green/conventional methanol blend results in CO2e savings of 31% compared to a voyage operated on Very Low Sulphur Fuel Oil (VLSFO). Additionally, the blend achieves reductions in particulate matter (PM), sulphur oxides (SOx), and nitrogen oxides (NOx), surpassing the 2025 greenhouse gas emissions target set by Fuel EU Maritime.

“Singapore is the world’s most important bunkering hub, so it’s fantastic to celebrate the naming of Stena Prosperous here, as we also celebrate the role methanol is playing in the decarbonisation of the industry,” said David Cassidy, Chief Executive of Proman.

The first of the six methanol-fueled tankers was delivered in June 2022 and they are all currently in commercial operation running on methanol.

Methanol, as a pathway fuel, virtually eliminates particulate matter and SOx, and reduces NOx by up to 80% during combustion. Green methanol produced from biogas can lead to more than 90% GHG emissions savings.

Proman Stena Bulk tested the first four vessels in the series in 2023 to assess the emissions performance of its fleet. Preliminary analysis indicates that when the four vessels operate on methanol instead of VLSFO, the GHG emissions savings for a full year are around 5,500 tonnes.

“We are proud of the track record of these tankers to-date, and are excited to be able to continue to prove to the market that by being pragmatic and flexible, we can make tangible steps towards decarbonization,” said Erik Hånell, President and CEO of Stena Bulk.

The six-ship fleet is currently crewed and operated by Stena Sphere company Northern Marine Group. Stena Prosperous has also benefited from the $300m LEMSCO Fund, an industry-first investment fund targeting sustainable investments. The fund aims to deliver the critical shipping and associated infrastructure needed for the energy transition.

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