Guangzhou targets routine methanol bunkering, regional coordination

Guangzhou, a southern Chinese port city, aims to transition methanol fuel deliveries for ships from pilot projects to regular service, with the goal of making it a routine practice. To achieve this, the Guangzhou Port Authority is focusing on refining operating procedures, connecting fuel suppliers with buyers, and enhancing coordination with nearby ports like Shenzhen and Hong Kong, as a port official explained to Platts.

In September and October, the port completed green methanol deliveries to a bulk carrier, a container ship, and a car carrier within 40 days, providing valuable insights for the expansion of the service. The authority's main objectives include reviewing the three operations to optimize future deliveries and facilitating discussions among marine fuel suppliers and users.

They also aim to build a platform for dialogue among stakeholders in marine energy, bridging suppliers and buyers to streamline operations. Wu Jia, a staff member of Guangzhou Port Authority, emphasized the need for closer collaboration among Guangzhou, Shenzhen, and Hong Kong, highlighting the importance of aligning regulatory practices across the Greater Bay Area to facilitate seamless and convenient green fuel bunkering.

Currently, Guangzhou is the world's first port to have successfully performed green methanol bunkering for container ships, bulk carriers, and car carriers. The port authority is also working on developing infrastructure to meet the diverse fuel needs of different vessels, including LNG, biofuel bunkers, and green methanol. Additionally, Guangzhou is collaborating with Los Angeles to establish a transpacific green shipping corridor, with a focus on vessel electrification and supporting infrastructure, such as charging and battery-swapping facilities.