The Panama Canal has introduced a new initiative called the NetZero Slot, aimed at promoting the decarbonization of maritime shipping. This initiative aligns with the canal’s goal of achieving net-zero emissions by 2050. The first allocation of this slot will occur on October 3, 2025, for the transit week of November 2–8, 2025. Each week, one slot will be reserved for vessels that meet specific low-emission criteria.
Clients awarded the NetZero Slot will enjoy several advantages, including the ability to choose their transit date within the designated week, guaranteed transit within 24 hours, access to a Just-in-Time service, and flexibility in vessel substitutions. To qualify for this slot, vessels must be dual-fuel capable and operate on fuels with a carbon intensity factor of 75 gCO₂e/MJ or lower, such as green methanol or bio-LNG.
The selection process for the NetZero Slot will not involve an auction; instead, vessels will be prioritized based on cargo condition, PCUMS capacity, and economic contributions from previous transits. This initiative is a significant step for the Panama Canal in supporting the global transition to low-carbon technologies, as highlighted by Ilya Espino de Marotta, the Deputy Administrator and Chief Sustainability Officer.
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