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X-Press Feeders Launches Second Green Methanol-Powered Route in Europe

MV Eco-Umande. Photo courtesy X-Press Feeders

X-Press Feeders Launches Second Green Methanol-Powered Route in Europe

Mike Schuler
Total Views: 594
August 23, 2024

X-Press Feeders, the world’s largest independent common carrier, has announced the launch of its second green methanol-powered route, the Green Baltic X-PRESS (GBX).

The new route is part of Europe’s first scheduled feeder network powered by green methanol and follows the successful launch of the Green Finland X-PRESS (GFX) in July.

The GBX route, set to commence operations on August 23, will service ports including Rotterdam, Antwerp-Bruges, Klaipeda, and Riga. This expansion was made possible by the addition of a third dual-fuel ship, the Eco-Umande, to X-Press Feeders’ fleet.

X-Press Feeders, operating a fleet of over 100 vessels, received the first of 14 ordered dual-fuel vessels in May. The company expects delivery of all 14 ships by mid-2026. Each dual-fuel vessel boasts a capacity of 1,200 TEU and measures 148 meters in length overall (LOA).

“Building on the momentum of our first green methanol-powered route, we are excited to launch the Green Baltic X-PRESS, expanding our feeder network powered by green methanol and providing more sustainable shipping options to our customers,” said Francis Goh, Chief Operating Officer of X-Press Feeders.

The company’s commitment to sustainability is evident in its choice of green methanol as fuel, which reduces greenhouse gas emissions by up to 65 percent compared to conventional fuels. The green methanol used by X-Press Feeders is independently certified in Europe under ISCC (International Sustainability and Carbon Certification).

The initiative aligns with recent EU regulations, including the emissions trading scheme for maritime shipping and the upcoming Fuel EU Maritime regulations, both aimed at reducing the environmental impact of the shipping industry.

X-Press Feeders has also signed agreements with several European ports to promote green methanol-powered shipping, with Rotterdam serving as the initial base for this network.

Looking ahead, the company plans to expand its green methanol-powered network across Europe as it continues to receive more dual-fuel vessels, furthering its goal of decarbonizing the maritime industry.

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