In Hong Kong, China Daily reported the Minhou, China’s first methanol-diesel dual-fuel cargo vessel, completed its maiden voyage from Shanghai to Chongqing, marking a step toward cleaner inland shipping. Built by Minsheng Industrial, the vessel is one of the first in China to run on methanol and is designed to carry both standard and rail-wide containers, improving intermodal transport along the Yangtze River.
The Minhou carried 395 containers loaded with chemical raw materials and automotive parts to Guoyuan Port, a major logistics hub in Chongqing. Methanol combustion does not generate sulfur oxides, produces significantly fewer particulates, and contributes to lower nitrogen oxide emissions. “Compared to traditional diesel-powered vessels, methanol clean energy-powered vessels emit approximately 96% less carbon monoxide and 99% fewer hydrocarbons,” said Feng Wurong, director at Minsheng Shipping Branch.
With three more methanol vessels planned this year, the project is part of China’s effort to modernize inland shipping under a Ministry of Transport initiative promoting low-carbon transportation. The Yangtze River Economic Belt, a major freight corridor, is seeing increased investment in clean fuel alternatives as China expands its green logistics network.
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Tags: China, methanol
Category: Sustainable Marine Fuels
