Maersk reports it has completed a first, successful, trial of blending ethanol into methanol to create an alternative fuel for its vessels. It plans to proceed with increased levels of ethanol and 100% ethanol tests as it explores steps to enlarge the availability and sourcing pool for alternative fuels for its dual-fuel vessels.
One of the challenges Maersk and other shipowners have pointed to is the availability of methanol and other alternative fuels and the ability of suppliers to expand production to meet the potential needs of the shipping industry. Maersk looks to run trials that could develop alternatives that can continue to supply the company as it moves forward with its decarbonisation efforts.
The mixing of ethanol and methanol is possible because they are both alcohols, and there is a longstanding history dating back to the 1970s when ethanol was first used to extend gasoline supplies. Many countries use a 10% ethanol mix for automobile fuel, with the US and Brazil supplying around 80% of the ethanol.
Maersk launched its dual-fuel feeder vessel Laura Maersk (32,600 dwt) in 2023 for operations in the Baltic region. It has provided a test bed for methanol, which the company points out has been used for three years with no issues.
The first trial with E10, a 10% ethanol–90% methanol blend, began in October 2025 and supplied the Laura Maersk with fuel for four to six weeks. Reports conclude that performance was not compromised, confirming that ethanol can be safely and effectively integrated into the fuel mix. Among the issues monitored were ignition quality, the way the fuel was burning, corrosion, and the impact on emissions, including changes in NOx emissions. Based on the confirmation from the first test, Maersk now plans to test E50, a 50-50 blend of ethanol and methanol. In addition, beyond the E50 trials, the company plans to conduct a trial using 100% ethanol.
Emma Mazhari, Head of Energy Markets, Maersk, said: “At Maersk, we believe multiple fuel pathways are essential for the shipping industry to meet its climate ambitions. That means consciously exploring different options and technologies. Ethanol has a proven track record with an established market and existing infrastructure and offers an additional pathway for decarbonisation. By gradually increasing ethanol content, we gain valuable insights into engine performance and combustion impacts, informing fuel sourcing potential.”
Maersk currently has 19 dual-fuel vessels operating and more scheduled for delivery. In 2027 it plans to begin using time-chartered dual-fuel LNG vessels. The company highlights that it is expanding its low-emission fuel options, including bio- and e-methanol, biodiesel, and, with the LNG vessels, liquified biomethane.
Image: ‘Laura Maersk’ dual-fuel feeder ship (source: Maersk)
