China targets 1,000 electric ships and full Yangtze methanol bunkering by 2028
In China, the Ministry of Transport, Ministry of Industry and Information Technology and National Energy Administration issued a 2026-2030 action plan Sept. 29 targeting a doubling of the inland alternative-fuel fleet by 2028, including more than 1,000 electric transport vessels, over 100 methanol-powered ships and 3,000 kilometers of designated zero-carbon waterways.
The plan prioritizes electric propulsion for routes under 300 kilometers and vessels below 3,000 deadweight tons, with methanol propulsion targeted at larger vessels and longer routes.
Methanol bunkering facilities are planned for Chongqing, Yichang, Wuhan and Nanjing to establish continuous fuel availability along the Yangtze River. The Yangtze River Delta would receive an extensive electric vessel charging and battery swapping network.
The plan also supports renewable fuels, including biodiesel and green methanol, battery leasing, standardized vessel designs and financial incentives to accelerate commercial adoption.
Category: Sustainable Marine Fuels
