Proman Stena Bulk confirm successful launching of first methanol vessel
4 November 2021, Wollerau, Switzerland and Gothenburg, Sweden – Proman Stena Bulk have successfully completed the launching of the Stena Pro Patria, the first of three 49,900 dwt methanol dual-fuel MR tankers that Proman and Stena Bulk are building together as part of their JV.
The launching is one of the most important milestones of the ship construction process, as the newbuilt vessel is transferred to the water for the first time. Stena Pro Patria’s launching took place at Guangzhou Shipyard International (GSI), which is the first Chinese shipyard to build a Methanol Dual-Fuel vessel.
Construction of the Stena Pro Patria will now continue on the water, ahead of sea trials and final delivery to Proman Stena Bulk in Q1 2022.
Over the next two years, she will be joined by another five methanol-powered newbuilds: Stena Pro Mare and Stena Prosperous, which will be Proman Stena Bulk JV vessels, and the Proman-owned Provident, Progressive and Promise. All vessels will be constructed at Guangzhou Shipyard International and delivered by the end of 2023.
The Provident and Progressive will be traded globally for shipping chemicals and clean petroleum products, enabling shipowners worldwide to experience the environmental benefits and emissions reductions of these 100% renewable-ready methanol-powered vessels.
All Proman and Proman Stena Bulk JV vessels will utilise the same pioneering vessel design and innovative MAN B&W 6G50ME-C9.6 MW Tier III engines. The vessels will also be equipped with the latest energy efficiency technology, including continually controlled combustion, optimised tuning, redesigned and aerodynamic hull lines, and an energy shaft generator, reducing fuel consumption and helping to meet strict emissions criteria.
Each vessel will use approximately 12,500 tonnes per annum of methanol as a marine fuel. Using widely available and cost-competitive ‘grey’ methanol produced from natural gas, greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions in the vessels’ normal commercial operations will be significantly reduced compared to conventional marine fuels. This includes the virtual elimination of sulphur dioxide and particulate matter, 60% reduction of nitrogen oxide and a cut in carbon dioxide, offering immediate improvements to air quality around ports and coastlines.
Proman and Stena Bulk’s shared vision is to dramatically accelerate the energy transition in shipping through concrete commitments and tangible action. Together, we are working to leverage both companies’ ambition and expertise to make methanol more widely available to vessel owners around the world and help them to join us on the transition to a cleaner shipping industry.
