Japan has taken a significant step towards sustainable maritime operations with the launch of its first methanol-fueled tanker. The vessel, named Daiichi Meta Maru, is set to begin service around the start of 2025 in coastal trade. This groundbreaking project, developed by a consortium of Japanese companies including Mitsui O.S.K. Lines (MOL), is designed to showcase the potential of methanol as a viable alternative fuel for shipping.
The Daiichi Meta Maru, approximately 560 gross tons, was launched in a traditional ceremony on July 3, marking a milestone in Japan’s maritime industry. The vessel, which measures 65.5 meters in length, is specifically designed to transport methanol for Mitsubishi Corporation and is fueled by methanol itself. The engine, developed by Hanshin Diesel Works, is designed to operate at speeds of 11 knots or greater, ensuring efficient and reliable performance.
The consortium behind this innovative project comprises MOL, MOL Coastal Shipping, Tabuchi Kaiun Co., and Niihama Kaiun Kabushiki Kaisha. The vessel is being constructed at the Kanasashi Heavy Industries facility, part of the Murakami Hide Shipbuilding Group. Upon its delivery in December 2024, the Daiichi Meta Maru will operate under a charter to MOL Coastal Shipping.
Innovative Vessel Set to Enter Service by Early 2025
In addition to its methanol-fueled engine, the vessel features several advanced technologies. According to the companies involved, it will be equipped with the most advanced energy-saving devices, operational support systems, and automated cargo handling systems. These innovations aim to enhance the vessel’s efficiency and reduce its environmental impact.
The order for the Daiichi Meta Maru was placed in December 2022, with the project receiving support from Japan’s Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry (METI) and the Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism (MLIT). The project’s goal is not only to promote methanol as a sustainable fuel but also to integrate artificial intelligence (AI) and the Internet of Things (IoT) to develop more efficient and technologically advanced vessels.
先ほど内航初のメタノール燃料タンカー「第一めた丸」がカナサシ重工で進水しました。 pic.twitter.com/28ldETVIC0
— 深水千翔@海事ライター (@Ichipenmaritime) July 3, 2024
Japan is emerging as a leader in the adoption of methanol for maritime use. In 2021, MOL acquired a minority stake in Methanex Corporation’s Waterfront Shipping subsidiary to gain experience in the methanol market. Several Japanese shipping companies have also placed orders for methanol dual-fuel ships. Notably, a domestic Japanese car carrier, ordered in June 2024, will be the first methanol vessel built by Mitsubishi Shipbuilding.
The launch of Daiichi Meta Maru signifies a major advancement in Japan’s maritime sector, highlighting the country’s commitment to sustainable and innovative shipping solutions. The integration of methanol as a fuel and the use of advanced technologies like AI and IoT are expected to set new standards in the industry, offering a cleaner and more efficient alternative to traditional fuels.
The development and launch of the Daiichi Meta Maru come at a time when the global shipping industry is under increasing pressure to reduce its carbon footprint. Methanol is considered a promising alternative fuel due to its lower emissions compared to conventional marine fuels. It can significantly reduce sulfur oxide (SOx), nitrogen oxide (NOx), and particulate matter emissions, contributing to a cleaner marine environment.
The advanced energy-saving devices and automated systems onboard the Daiichi Meta Maru will play a crucial role in optimizing fuel consumption and operational efficiency. These technologies are designed to support the crew with real-time data and predictive analytics, enabling smarter decision-making and reducing the likelihood of human error.
Furthermore, the integration of AI and IoT technologies in the vessel’s design demonstrates Japan’s forward-thinking approach to maritime innovation. These technologies will enhance the vessel’s operational capabilities, from navigation and route optimization to cargo management and safety monitoring. The use of AI can lead to more efficient route planning, reducing fuel consumption and emissions, while IoT can provide continuous monitoring of the vessel’s systems, ensuring optimal performance and maintenance.
The launch of the Daiichi Meta Maru also reflects the growing collaboration between various sectors in Japan to achieve sustainability goals. The support from METI and MLIT underscores the government’s commitment to promoting green technologies and sustainable practices in the maritime industry. By investing in such innovative projects, Japan aims to lead by example and encourage other nations to adopt similar environmentally friendly technologies.
As the Daiichi Meta Maru prepares to enter service, it will serve as a valuable case study for the potential benefits of methanol-fueled shipping. The insights gained from its operation will be instrumental in refining and improving methanol technology, paving the way for broader adoption across the global shipping industry.
