Methanol-fuelled tanker delivered to Proman Stena Bulk

The 49,990dwt medium-range tanker, Stena Pro Patria, has been delivered to owner Proman Stena Bulk, a joint venture between Switzerland-headquartered methanol producer, Proman, and Sweden’s Stena Bulk. The tanker is the first of six IMOIIMeMAX ships being built at Guangzhou Shipyard International (GSI) in China for Proman Stena Bulk and Proman.

The Stena Pro Patria has a dual-fuel propulsion system from MAN Energy Solutions and incorporates various energy-saving technologies, including continually controlled combustion, optimised tuning, aerodynamic hull lines, and an energy shaft generator. These features reduce fuel consumption and will enable the tanker to go beyond mere IMO compliance, Proman Stena Bulk said in a statement.

On leaving GSI, the vessel will sail for Ulsan to load methanol fuel. It will then proceed to Trinidad and Tobago for a naming ceremony later this year. The tanker is expected to consume about 12,500 tonnes of methanol per annum. It will be a low-emission vessel, with reduced carbon emissions, NOx down by 60%, and zero SOx or particulate matter emissions.

Proman chief executive, David Cassidy, said: “The delivery of the Stena Pro Patria represents a major milestone for the success of our joint venture with Stena Bulk, as well as sends an important message to the market that methanol is a reliable and available marine fuel that can reduce global shipping emissions in the short, medium, and long term.”