The American Bureau of Shipping (ABS), Eneos Corporation, Nippon Yusen Kabushiki Kaisha (NYK Line), and Seacor Holdings have begun a joint study to develop a methanol bunkering and supply chain network along the US Gulf Coast.
The four parties aim to establish the first commercial-scale ship-to-ship (STS) methanol bunkering operations in the US. In the global maritime industry, IMO hopes to set a target of net-zero GHG emissions by around 2050, and practical solutions are increasingly required. Low-carbon methanol produced from renewable or bio-based sources is gaining attention as a next-generation marine fuel due to its easy handling as a liquid at ambient temperature and pressure, as well as its potential to reduce GHG emissions.
Eneos will explore the procurement and supply of low-carbon methanol, including green methanol to be produced by C2X, a company in which Eneos holds an equity stake, through the Beaver Lake Renewable Energy project in Louisiana.
NYK Line will leverage its experience in developing LNG bunkering infrastructure and provide technical expertise for preparing methanol bunkering vessels.
Seacor will contribute its experience as a long-term Jones Act qualified owner and operator of diversified assets across the US coastwise and inland waterways, in addition to its design, engineering and construction capabilities.
ABS will provide class and regulatory support needed to establish methanol bunkering operations in the US.
Through this initiative, ABS, Eneos, NYK Line and Seacor aim to help realise a carbon-neutral future for the maritime industry.
Image: NYK STS methanol bunkering operation carried out in Korea earlier in 2025 (source: NYK)
