The world's pioneering methanol-powered container vessel, “ANE MAERSK”, made its maiden call at YANTIAN.

 

01 Optimal decarbonisation fuel
Amidst the pursuit of "dual-carbon" goals, the shipping sector is pivoting towards green methanol. By October 2023, global orders for methanol-powered vessels had soared to 120, far surpassing the previous year's tally of 47. Maersk leads the charge in procuring methanol-powered vessels, with "ANE MAERSK" spearheading the fleet as the first of 18 large methanol-powered container vessels commissioned by the company.

Based on insights from China Energy News, the key strategy for achieving emission reduction and decarbonisation goals lies in minimising dependence on fossil fuels and embracing economically viable green energy alternatives that are carbon-neutral or zero-carbon. Among these solutions, methanol is poised to stand out as the leading decarbonisation fuel for maritime shipping.

Renowned as the "liquid sunshine," methanol stands out as a promising clean energy solution with its high combustion efficiency, minimal emissions, and renewable attributes. Its inherent liquid form at room temperature facilitates both storage and utilisation. Furthermore, adopting methanol as vessel fuel necessitates only requires minor adjustments to current vessels, greatly saving costs.

02 YANTIAN to Europe: optimal and swift services
Deployed on the Asia-Europe service, the “ANE MAERSK” makes its final stop in China at YANTIAN, ensuring the swiftest transit to the destination port. YANTIAN works closely with shipping lines to offer over 30 Asia-Europe services, witnessing an average of 4 vessels departing for Europe daily. To ensure the secure berthing of the “ANE MAERSK”, Yantian Maritime Safety Administration paid close attention to the vessel's movements and berth plan, deploying safety supervision and service assistance. They collaborated with YANTIAN and the agents to verify details such as the vessel's arrival time and cargo volume. Additionally, comprehensive supervision of the vessel's arrival process was conducted through maritime regulatory service platforms, CCTV systems, and on-site patrol, and measures were implemented to streamline port entry and exit procedure. Supervision after the departure of the vessel ensures compliance with international conventions, domestic laws, and regulations regarding safety and pollution prevention throughout berthing and operations.

The call of the “ANE MAERSK” not only signifies the introduction of yet another eco-friendly shipping solution in the global maritime sector but also underscores YANTIAN's unwavering commitment to nurturing an intelligent and sustainable port. Throughout the vessel's call at the port, YANTIAN ensured the provision of shore power, effectively meeting the vessel's energy requirements. Recognised as a pioneer in pollution and carbon reduction, having been honored with the "Best Green Container Terminal Award" three times in four years, YANTIAN consistently aligns its efforts with national environmental protection agendas. From improving water and air quality to embracing green practices in construction and operations, we exemplify our dedication to environmental stewardship, translating our pledge to sustainable, low-carbon port operations.

Nicholas Chen, Duty Manager of YANTIAN, said, "The ANE MAERSK draws power from onshore facilities to meet its electricity needs for heating, communication, lighting, and more throughout its call at YANTIAN, achieving zero emissions, zero pollution, and zero noise. YANTIAN remains resolute in its dedication to green port development. Notably, we boast the nation's largest shore power capacity, covering the most berths; we pioneered the adoption of electric RTGC fleet, becoming the first terminal in China to do so; as early as 2010, we took the lead in promoting the use of LNG tractors domestically. In 2023, our total carbon emissions decreased by nearly 20,000 tons (19,600 tons) compared to 2022, equivalent to planting approximately 1.09 million trees. Furthermore, carbon emissions per container in 2023 decreased by 33% compared to 2011."

03 One pilotage in Mirs Bay: enhancing Shenzhen-Hong Kong cooperation
Maritime shipping serves as Shenzhen's primary artery for international logistics, with pilotage playing a pivotal role in the port logistics chain. Pilots, revered as the "gatekeepers on the sea," are the first to board incoming vessels and the last to bid them farewell. In the waters of Mirs Bay, the "one pilotage per voyage" policy has been in effect since June 1, 2022. This inaugural call of “ANE MAERSK” in Shenzhen was steered by Hong Kong pilots, showcasing seamless cooperation between Shenzhen and Hong Kong.

Liu Zongkai, Deputy Director of the Yantian Station of Exit and Entry Frontier Inspection (Yantian Frontier Inspection), emphasised, "The one pilotage policy has significantly shortened vessel entry and exit times by several hours. This has not only reduced waiting times for international vessels to berth and depart but also notably enhanced port operational efficiency, minimised berth idle time, and drove substantial cost savings on navigation and fuel. Furthermore, it facilitates seamless vessel movement and fosters efficient logistics circulation."

Bruce Lee, Chairman of the Hong Kong Pilots Association, expressed, "Mirs Bay's naturally deep and unobstructed waterway, along with its expansive waters and natural barriers, provides exceptional maritime navigation conditions. The approach channel boasts moderate water flow and lacks hazardous facilities or significant infrastructure like the Tsing Ma Bridge near Hong Kong, contributing to reduced risks and ensuring navigational safety. These factors are pivotal prerequisites for the effective implementation of the one pilotage policy."

With steadfast support from the governments of Shenzhen and Hong Kong, alongside various port supervisory authorities, the Shenzhen Pilotage Station, and the Hong Kong Pilots Association, the implementation of one pilotage policy has demonstrated its safety and efficacy.

Looking ahead, we anticipate a surge of green and clean energy-powered vessels calling at YANTIAN and setting sail for destinations worldwide. YANTIAN remains unwavering in our commitment to prioritising green development, gaining insights into industry trends, exploring diverse emission reduction strategies, harnessing technological innovations, fostering collaboration with industry partners to establish eco-friendly channels, promoting the sustainable growth of corporate ecosystems, and making significant contributions to achieving carbon peak, carbon neutrality, and ensuring the stability of the industrial and supply chain of the international trade.