Orders for alternative-fuel vessels surged to 168 in Q3 2026, the highest quarterly total in two years, driven by 69 orders in September alone. LNG vessels led the orders, with 48 contracts across various types. This rebound highlights shipowners’ commitment to investing in alternative-fuel capabilities for their fleets.
A.P. Moller-Maersk has achieved a significant milestone by bunkering its Tangier Maersk containership with 100% U.S.-produced corn ethanol in Houston. This marks the first ship-to-ship commercial ethanol bunkering for deep-sea vessels in the U.S., highlighting the company’s exploration of diverse alternative fuels for its fleet.
The Jawaharlal Nehru Port Authority has partnered with the International Finance Corporation to introduce India’s first blue financing framework for the maritime sector. With a US$70 million investment, this initiative aims to reduce carbon emissions by 63% and air pollution by 90%, while creating over 400 jobs in the process.
According to DNV’s “Maritime Forecast to 2050,” regulatory uncertainty is shaping shipowners’ investment strategies, influencing choices on vessel longevity and fuel systems. The report outlines four possible regulatory scenarios, emphasizing the need for flexible fleets and adaptable technology to navigate varying regulations and ensure competitiveness amid potential fuel supply challenges.
Interferry supports the European Commission’s revision of the EU Emissions Trading System, highlighting its potential for maritime decarbonization. The association emphasizes the need for robust onshore power infrastructure and reliable grid connections, urging lawmakers to allocate ETS revenues to sustainable initiatives, while ensuring zero-emission operators can access essential funding.
During his recent UN address, President Trump criticized the International Maritime Organization’s proposed Net-Zero Framework, claiming it would lead to a global carbon tax and a 10 to 20 percent increase in shipping costs. He emphasized, “There is no global government,” and vowed no global taxes while in office.
The shipping industry is grappling with the looming 2030 zero-emission fuel goals. Despite progress in methanol infrastructure, a UCL report reveals contrasting advancements, with a drop in zero-emission vessel orders and sustainable financing. Uncertain regulations hinder investments, leaving stakeholders anxious as they navigate this pivotal transition towards decarbonization.
On September 17, NYK Line, in collaboration with Japan Marine United Corporation and others, achieved a groundbreaking milestone by executing the world’s first ship-to-ship ammonia bunkering operation. Conducted at Ariake Shipyard, ammonia was transferred from the Shoei Maru to an ammonia-fueled medium gas carrier, paving the way for future marine fuel innovations.
As the IMO finalizes its Net Zero Framework, a new study investigates continuous emissions measurement technology for LNG vessels. This research compares real-time monitoring with traditional modeling methods, aiming to enhance emissions reporting accuracy. The project will assess Kongsberg Maritime’s Continuous Emissions Monitoring System against default emissions factors, informing regulatory frameworks.
The Society for Gas as a Marine Fuel (SGMF) has published a Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) on methanol as a marine fuel, highlighting its potential to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. Evaluating 15 production pathways, the assessment shows that renewable energy utilization can significantly lower emissions, emphasizing the importance of ongoing updates in alternative fuels research.
K Shipbuilding and Lloyd’s Register have signed a Memorandum of Understanding to co-develop a 50,000 dwt medium-range product tanker powered by ethanol. This initiative, announced at Gastech 2026 in Bangkok, focuses on exploring the technical and regulatory aspects necessary for safe implementation, while aiming for Approval in Principle from LR.
ClassNK has granted an Approval in Principle (AiP) for a 42,000 m³ liquefied CO₂ carrier, developed by leading companies including “K” LINE, MOL, NSY, NYK Line, MILES, and Mitsubishi Shipbuilding. This certification, presented at Gastech2026 in Bangkok, marks a significant step towards meeting the increasing demand for CO₂ transport solutions.
HD Hyundai Heavy Industries, BAR Technologies, and the Liberian Registry have partnered to explore large wing sails for LNG carriers, formalizing their initiative at Gastech 2026 in Bangkok. The project aims to integrate BAR’s WindWings system into a new 174,000 cubic-meter LNG carrier, enhancing efficiency and supporting emissions reductions.
In September, India’s maritime sector made notable strides as the government advanced its Maritime India Vision 2030 and Maritime Amrit Kaal Vision 2047. With 38 registered ship lessors managing 43 vessels, including 24 under the Indian flag, Union Shipping Minister Sarbananda Sonowal highlighted these developments at the India Ship Leasing Summit.
Chowgule and Company’s Shipbuilding Division has signed a contract with Green Maritime Infrastructure to construct two hydrogen-powered cargo vessels at its Goa shipyard. This project, unveiled at the SMM Hamburg 2026 event, underscores a commitment to sustainable shipping, utilizing hydrogen fuel-cell technology for enhanced environmental performance.
