(SHANGHAI) ABS granted approval in principle (AIP) to CSSC Qingdao Beihai Shipbuilding CO., LTD and China Ship Design & Research Center Co., Ltd (CSDC) for the world’s first methanol-powered Newcastlemax Bulk Carrier.

The dual-fuel, 210,000 dwt vessel is also equipped with the methanol tank capacity to fully meet endurance requirements on methanol fuel alone.

“Methanol as marine fuel is a promising fuel with the potential to support the industry’s journey to low- and zero-carbon operations.

ABS is involved in multiple methanol-fueled projects, with leading operators all over the world. We are pleased to use our insight and experience to support this innovative bulk carrier design,” said Patrick Ryan, ABS Senior Vice President, Global Engineering and Technology.

“As early as 2016, CSDC realized the feasibility of methanol as a decarbonization fuel for ships and carried out relevant design and research continuously.

In the research and development of this ship, we used our knowledge and experiences to make the ship have a good technical maturity and high reliability.

We hope to bring more commercial and social value to our customers while continuously improving ship technology,” said Yu Dexin, General Manager of CSDC.

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ABS, a leading global provider of classification and technical advisory services to the marine and offshore industries, is committed to setting standards for safety and excellence in design and construction.

Focused on safe and practical application of advanced technologies and digital solutions, ABS works with industry and clients to develop accurate and cost-effective compliance, optimized performance and operational efficiency for marine and offshore assets.