Lemissoler Navigation’s methanol-fuelled bulk carrier design gets ABS approval in principle

The American Bureau of Shipping (ABS) has issued an approval in principle (AIP) to Lemissoler Navigation – a Limassol-based liner shipping company that provides dry bulk cargo marine transportation services – for its design of a 65K DWT methanol-fuelled Ultramax bulk carrier, the first such methanol vessel for China’s shipbuilding industry.

The Lem65ePlus-SDARI Methanol design, a joint development of Lemissoler and SDARI, explores the feasibility of using methanol as fuel to reduce carbon emissions to reach the IMO’s net-zero target by 2050.

With the implementation of the EU ETS and FuelEU regulations, the vessel, when burning green methanol will have a high potential to reduce carbon emissions-related costs. The vessel has been thoroughly optimised and its preliminary Energy Efficiency Design Index (EEDI) was reviewed and indicated that it exceeds well EEDI Phase 3 standards. ABS completed design reviews based on class and statutory requirements.

Vassilios Kroustallis, ABS Senior Vice President, Global Business Development, said: “Methanol is a promising fuel source to reduce shipping emissions, and this new design from Lemissoler is an exciting opportunity for China shipbuilding to show leadership once again in the decarbonisation of our industry. ABS is proud to support these innovative projects, sharing our industry-leading guidance to assist owners and shipyards with services and solutions regarding alternative fuels.”

Philippos Philis, Chairman and CEO of Lemissoler Navigation, added: ”We at Lemissoler are once again pioneering new technological and innovative designs for our Dry Bulk fleet. The collaboration with SDARI and ABS is proof of how much can be achieved.”

Zhou Zhi-yong, Vice President of SDARI, stated: “As the designer of this innovative methanol-fueled vessel, SDARI is always committed to tailor-made and deliver practical solutions to customers' demands, offering an optimized design to satisfy future maritime rules and regulations.”

Founded in 1996 in Limassol, Lemissoler developed from a regional Liner Shipping Company into an established Shipping Group operating globally. We provide dry bulk cargo marine transportation services, with uncompromised obedience to our flagship Corporate Environmental Responsibility.