Maersk Halifax Becomes Industry’s First Large Vessel Converted to Dual-Fuel Methanol Operation

Maersk Halifax Becomes Industry’s First Large Vessel Converted to Dual-Fuel Methanol Operation

(IN BRIEF) Maersk has retrofitted the Maersk Halifax into the industry’s first large dual-fuel vessel capable of operating on methanol, completed in 88 days at Zhoushan Xinya Shipyard, China. The conversion, led by MAN Energy Solutions, involved replacing engine components, installing new fuel tanks, and extending the ship’s hull by 15 meters, increasing capacity to 15,690 TEU. This milestone aligns with Maersk’s goal of achieving net zero emissions by 2040, showcasing retrofitting as a sustainable alternative to building new vessels. The Maersk Halifax is now servicing the Trans-Pacific trade route, advancing Maersk’s commitment to decarbonization.

(PRESS RELEASE) COPENHAGEN, 18-Nov-2024 — /EuropaWire/ — In a groundbreaking development for the shipping industry, Maersk has successfully retrofitted the Maersk Halifax into a dual-fuel vessel capable of operating on methanol. This extensive conversion, completed at Zhoushan Xinya Shipyard in China over 88 days, marks a significant milestone in Maersk’s commitment to sustainable maritime operations. The vessel, now returned to service on the Trans-Pacific trade route, underscores the company’s innovative approach to reducing carbon emissions.

The conversion process, led by MAN Energy Solutions, involved substantial modifications to the ship. Key updates included the replacement of engine components to enable methanol compatibility, the installation of new fuel tanks, a fuel preparation room, and a fuel supply system. To accommodate these upgrades, the ship’s hull was extended by 15 meters, increasing its total length to 368 meters and boosting its capacity from 15,000 to 15,690 TEU.

“This successful retrofit represents a pivotal step in our journey towards decarbonization,” said Leonardo Sonzio, Head of Fleet Management and Technology at Maersk. “By retrofitting existing vessels with dual-fuel engines, we provide a viable alternative to newbuilds as we transition from fossil fuels to low-emission options.”

The Maersk Halifax retrofit is part of Maersk’s broader strategy to achieve net zero emissions by 2040. The company plans to leverage insights from this project to guide future retrofits, offering a scalable solution for sustainable shipping.

Departing the shipyard anchorage on November 4, 2024, the Maersk Halifax is now fully operational, marking a new chapter in Maersk’s leadership in sustainable maritime innovation. This press release was written by the author to highlight Maersk’s industry-first initiative and its ongoing efforts to revolutionize shipping with eco-friendly solutions.

About Maersk

A.P. Moller – Maersk is an integrated logistics company working to connect and simplify its customers’ supply chains. As a global leader in logistics services, the company operates in more than 130 countries and employs around 100,000 people. Maersk is aiming to reach net zero emissions by 2040 across the entire business with new technologies, new vessels, and low-emission fuels.

Media Contact:

Povl D. Rasmussen
Senior Media Relations Advisor, Ocean business
+45 31528620
povl.rasmussen@maersk.com

SOURCE: A.P. Moller – Maersk