LONDON: Methanex’ state-of-the-art methanol ship, the Taranaki Sun, has docked for the first time at Port Taranaki on its maiden voyage. A massive, state-of-the-art tanker ship that uses the latest ‘green’ technology is on its maiden voyage to China carrying a load of Taranaki-made fuel.
The 50,000-tonne Taranaki Sun spent two days in New Plymouth’s port, where it was loaded up with its cargo of methanol, a biodegradable, clean-burning fuel that reduces smog-causing emissions. Not only does the ship carry methanol, which is made at three sites in Taranaki, its two-stroke dual fuel engines can run on it, too, or use fuel oil, marine diesel oil or gas oil.
“It’s innovative and exciting technology – it reinforces our commitment to sustainable technology and also provides a cost-effective alternative marine fuel,” said Vanessa James, of Methanex, which transports methanol from New Zealand to Asia. “We believe methanol as a marine fuel has immense potential in helping the shipping industry meet environmental regulations, with a cleaner fuel that significantly reduces emissions, including nitrogen oxides and sulphur.”
Methanol is used in Asia to make hundreds of industrial and consumer items as well as for fuel. The Taranaki Sun is one of seven ships built for Methanex subsidiary, The Waterfront Shipping Company, and embarked on its maiden voyage from Japan last month.
Port Taranaki chief executive Guy Roper said they were eager to watch the developments Methanex – the port’s biggest customer – was making to its fleet. “We welcome any innovation in shipping technology, particularly when it impacts positively on the reduction of emissions and helps the industry work smarter and more efficiently. “We’re looking forward to the Taranaki Sun and other vessels in the fleet being regular visitors to Port Taranaki.”
