The Panama Canal Authority has announced the launch of its NetZero Slot for low-carbon-emission Neopanamax vessels, offering advantages such as choice of transit date, guaranteed transit through the Canal within 24 hours, and the inclusion of the Just-In-Time (JIT) service. This initiative is part of the Canal’s commitment to achieving net-zero emissions by 2050.
According to Advisory to Shipping No. A-07-2025, dated March 24, starting October 5, 2025, the Panama Canal will implement the first phase of a weekly NetZero Slot for Neopanamax vessels that meet specific low-carbon emission criteria. The available slots will be allocated through an auction 30 days prior to the transit date, with priority given to laden vessels and those with greater capacity according to the Panama Canal Universal Measuring System (PCUMS).
The first phase will consider vessels equipped with dual-fuel engines using at least one fuel with a carbon intensity lower than 75 gCO2(e)/MJ, accounting for its full Well-to-Wake (WtW) lifecycle emissions. Specifications for the second phase, expected in 2026, will be communicated in due course through a separate Advisory to Shipping.
With the NetZero Slot, the Panama Canal continues to drive progress toward cleaner, more sustainable maritime transportation, recognizing and rewarding its users’ efforts to achieve net-zero carbon emissions by 2050.
