Container Shippers: Navigating the Green Transition with Dual-Fuel Vessels

Container shipping companies are at the forefront of the global effort to decarbonize the maritime industry. With the International Maritime Organization (IMO) targeting a 50% reduction in shipping emissions by 2050, these companies are hedging their bets on the future of green fuels by ordering dual-fuel vessels. This strategic move allows them to adapt to an uncertain fuel landscape while minimizing the environmental impact of their operations.

The container shipping industry accounts for a significant portion of global greenhouse gas emissions, with its 6,643 vessels consuming vast amounts of heavy fuel oil annually. To meet the IMO's targets and satisfy growing customer demand for sustainability, companies like Maersk, CMA CGM, and COSCO are investing in new vessels designed to run on a variety of green fuel types.

As of October 31, 2021, container shipping companies had pending orders for 522 dual-fuel new vessels, according to data from DNV. These vessels are designed to run on liquefied natural gas (LNG), methanol, hydrogen, or ammonia, providing operators with flexibility in the face of an uncertain future fuel market. Rebecca Galanopoulos, senior content analyst at maritime software and services provider Veson Nautical, notes that 65% of container vessel orders in 2024 were for dual-fuel engines, compared to just 4% in 2018.



While LNG is currently the most popular choice for dual-fuel vessels, it is not without its critics. Although LNG can reduce greenhouse gas emissions by up to 23% compared to traditional ship fuels, producing, transporting, and using LNG can lead to methane leaks, which are potent greenhouse gases. Methanol and ammonia, on the other hand, offer greater emissions reduction potential, with methanol being less expensive to convert to dual-fuel vessels. However, they require larger tanks, reducing cargo space.

The transition to green fuels in the maritime industry, particularly methanol and ammonia, faces significant infrastructure and supply chain challenges. These include the need for new production facilities, storage, and transportation infrastructure, as well as the integration of these fuels into existing supply chains. Additionally, ensuring the reliability and consistency of these fuel sources is crucial for the industry's smooth operation.



Upfront costs for dual-fuel vessels can be 11-16% higher than traditional ships, depending on the fuel type (methanol or ammonia). However, conversion costs from fuel oil to full-range dual-fuel vessels can be 10-24% of a standard newbuild cost. These costs are offset by potential long-term savings, such as reduced fuel costs and lower emissions. For instance, CMA CGM has achieved a 50% reduction in carbon dioxide emissions per container using biodiesel.

Regulatory policies and incentives play a significant role in driving the adoption of green fuels in the container shipping industry. The International Maritime Organization (IMO) has set a goal to reduce shipping industry emissions by 50% by 2050. Policymakers worldwide are implementing measures to support this transition, such as carbon pricing, subsidies for green fuels, and mandates for lower-emission vessels. These policies and incentives encourage container shipping companies to invest in dual-fuel vessels and other green technologies, making the transition to a low-carbon future more feasible.

In conclusion, container shipping companies are actively hedging their bets on the future of green fuels by ordering dual-fuel vessels. While challenges remain in the production, infrastructure, and supply chain of these green fuels, the long-term benefits and regulatory incentives make this transition an attractive and necessary investment for the industry. As the maritime sector continues to evolve, companies that embrace this green transition will be well-positioned to succeed in a low-carbon future.