Auramarine, a leading fuel supply system provider, has delivered methanol fuel supply systems for two new hybrid chemical tankers under construction for Terntank. The move highlights the growing role of methanol in the maritime industry’s decarbonisation strategy and strengthens Terntank’s position as one of the frontrunners in sustainable short-sea shipping.
The two vessels, designed as hybrid tankers, will integrate battery packs, shore power connections, and wind-assisted propulsion technologies in addition to Auramarine’s methanol systems. This combination will allow for flexible, low-emission operations in compliance with tightening European and international environmental regulations.
Supporting Methanol as a Marine Fuel
Auramarine’s fuel supply systems are engineered to enable safe and efficient methanol handling, ensuring reliable engine performance while minimising operational risks. Methanol, already widely available in ports worldwide, is considered one of the most promising alternative fuels because of its lower carbon intensity compared to conventional marine fuels. When produced from renewable sources, such as biogenic or synthetic pathways, methanol has the potential to achieve near-zero greenhouse gas emissions.
“Methanol is becoming a mainstream alternative fuel option for shipping, and our systems are designed to make the transition both safe and efficient for operators,” Auramarine noted in a statement. “The collaboration with Terntank represents a major milestone in bringing sustainable chemical tankers to market.”
Terntank’s Fleet Decarbonisation Roadmap
Terntank, based in Finland and Sweden, has long been recognized as a pioneer in sustainable shipping. Its fleet already includes LNG and biogas-fuelled tankers fitted with battery hybrid solutions and shore power connectivity. By adding methanol-ready hybrid vessels, the company is building on its sustainability roadmap to further cut CO₂, SOx, NOx, and particulate matter emissions.
The two new hybrid tankers, scheduled for delivery in the coming years, will operate in Northern Europe, serving the chemical and clean petroleum product trades. Terntank has previously highlighted its commitment to aligning with the EU’s Fit for 55 package and the International Maritime Organization’s decarbonisation targets.
Methanol’s Rising Role in Shipping
The delivery of these fuel systems reflects a broader industry shift. According to classification societies, methanol is now one of the fastest-growing alternative fuels in new vessel orders, driven by its ability to be used in modified internal combustion engines and the increasing development of green methanol production projects.
Analysts point out that methanol-fuelled vessels offer shipowners an immediate pathway to compliance with EU Emissions Trading System (ETS) requirements and the FuelEU Maritime regulation, while also providing long-term flexibility as renewable methanol supply scales up.
Industry Impact
The collaboration between Auramarine and Terntank demonstrates how partnerships across the supply chain—from technology providers to shipowners—are key to accelerating decarbonisation in shipping. By deploying hybrid chemical tankers equipped for methanol, Terntank is expected to set new benchmarks in sustainable coastal and regional tanker operations.
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