Discussions at this week’s ARACON 26 conference in Rotterdam covered a considerable amount of ground, with digitalisation, AI, new marine fuels and evolving regulatory mandates all in the mix, but fuel quality – in relation to the ARA market, the ISO 8217 specification and the composition of biofuels – was a key talking point and certainly elicited some robust engagement between speakers and delegates. Regulation was the focus of a conference session and featured input from buyers, suppliers and compliance experts. With revisions of the EU Emissions Trading System (ETS), FuelEU Maritime (FEUM) and Europe’s Renewal Energy Directive in prospect, […]

The Freeport of Riga Authority, South Korean-based ECOMETHANOL Co. and Latvian company AE Risinājumi have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to explore the development of a green methanol production facility at the Port of Riga. The cooperation, announced earlier this week, aims to develop green methanol production for export and as an alternative marine fuel, while also exploring the establishment of a green fuel supply and bunkering hub at the port. ‘The initiative could create new opportunities to supply vessels operating between Europe and Asia via the Northern Sea Route, while strengthening the Port of Riga’s role in the […]

Dry bulk carrier Safe Bulkers has announced it has taken delivery of its first dual-fuel methanol-powered Kamsarmax. Built at Tsuneishi Shipbuilding (Zhoushan) Ltd., the Kypros Island, is the first dual-fuel bulker to enter the Cyprus Registry, Safe Bulkers said in a social media post yesterday (22 October). ‘This milestone marks a significant step forward in Safe Bulkers’ commitment to advancing more sustainable shipping and supporting the maritime industry’s transition towards a lower-carbon future,’ said Safe Bulkers. As previously reported by ship.energy, a second dual‑fuel‑ready Kamsarmax newbuilding is expected to join the Safe Bulkers fleet in January. Image: Safe Bulkers / […]