ABS, Eneos, NYK Line and Seacor Holdings launch joint study to develop a methanol marine fuel supply network in the U.S.
American Bureau of Shipping (ABS), ENEOS Corporation (ENEOS), Nippon Yusen Kabushiki Kaisha (NYK Line), and SEACOR Holdings Inc. (SEACOR) have begun a joint study to develop a methanol bunkering*¹ and supply chain network along the U.S. Gulf Coast.
The four parties aim to establish the first commercial-scale ship-to-ship*² methanol bunkering operations in the U.S. In the global maritime industry, the International Maritime Organization (IMO) has set a target of net-zero greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions by 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*3.
NYK Line will leverage its experience in developing LNG bunkering infrastructure and provide technical expertise for preparing methanol bunkering vessels.
SEACOR will contribute its expertise as a long-term Jones Act qualified owner and operator of diversified assets across the U.S. 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 U.S.
Through this initiative, ABS, ENEOS, NYK Line and SEACOR aim to help realize a carbon-neutral future for the maritime industry.
Key Roles of Participating Companies
- ABS: ABS will lead the regulatory compliance efforts and engage in discussions with local authorities necessary for the launch of the U.S.’ first methanol bunkering project
- Eneos: Eneos will lead the procurement, sales, and marketing of low-carbon methanol, leveraging its expertise to drive sustainable solutions
- NYK Line: NYK will leverage its extensive experience in the alternative fuel bunkering sector and provide expertise in areas such as the design of onshore and onboard facilities
- Seacor: Seacor Holdings will apply its extensive Jones Act experience to oversee the ownership and operation of bunkering barges, with a view toward compliance with relevant regulations.
Notes
*¹ Fuel supply to vessels
*² A bunkering method in which a fuel supply vessel moors alongside the receiving vessel
*3 ENEOS release published on April 2, 2025
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