Singapore-based X-Press Feeders, a major player in the maritime industry, is embarking on an environmentally conscious venture with its first dual-fuel vessels powered by green methanol. The company, holding a significant presence with over 100 vessels and ranking as the 14th largest ocean carrier globally, is setting a course for “green routes” to the Scandinavia-Baltic region of Northern Europe, beginning early next year.

This initiative is particularly notable for its strong links to Rotterdam and the Baltic region. The inaugural voyage of their first dual-fuel vessel, Eco Maestro, will see the ship depart from Shanghai, journeying to the Port of Rotterdam via the Suez Canal. This voyage underscores the strategic importance of Rotterdam as a key hub in X-Press Feeders’ operations, serving as the base port for Eco Maestro.

The vessel, a bio-methanol-powered ship and a pioneering construction in China, signifies a leap towards sustainable shipping. The use of bio-methanol, derived from organic matter decomposition, on this route marks an innovative step in reducing the environmental impact of maritime transport.

Despite challenges in the availability and distribution of methanol at global ports, X-Press Feeders is committed to addressing these through collaboration with ports along the route. This includes working with the Port of Rotterdam and other ports in Scandinavia and the Baltic states to ensure the supply of green methanol for their fleet.

Francis Goh, Chief Operating Officer of X-Press Feeder, emphasizes the need for industry-wide cooperation to achieve sustainable shipping. The company’s dedication to this cause is evident in their contract with Dutch fuel supplier OCI Global for the supply of green methanol at the Port of Rotterdam, starting from 2024.

Eco Maestro will operate in a feeder network in Northern Europe, connecting Rotterdam to ports in Scandinavia and the Baltic states. The use of green methanol will enable the vessel to run approximately 95% of each round voyage on this renewable fuel, significantly reducing CO2e emissions.

X-Press Feeders’ commitment to sustainability extends beyond this single initiative. The company has set ambitious targets to reduce its CO2e emissions by 20% by 2035, 50% by 2040, and to achieve net-zero emissions by 2050. Goh acknowledges the multifaceted approach required to reduce greenhouse gas emissions in the maritime industry, indicating that the introduction of dual-fuel vessels like Eco Maestro is just one of several initiatives the company is undertaking.

This move by X-Press Feeders, while primarily impacting their operations in Northern Europe, particularly around the vital ports of Rotterdam and in the Baltic region, represents a significant step towards a greener and more sustainable maritime industry.