The Port of Melbourne has set a target to achieve its net-zero emissions goal by sourcing 100% of the electricity needed for its business operations from renewables. The authority also intends to transition its corporate vehicle fleet and marine survey vessels to electric or zero-emissions fuel technologies. As we have reported in previous articles, this is inline with the industry trend of ‘going green.’
The port is measuring Scope 1, 2 and 3 emissions to understand its climate impact and inform its decarbonisation roadmap. This involves the achievement of net-zero emissions for Scope 1 and 2 for port operations by 2030.
As part of this effort, the port recently signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the industry to explore the commercial feasibility of establishing a green methanol bunkering hub at the Port of Melbourne.
Shipping container lines Maersk and ANL have teamed up with the port to work on a project involving the transportation of green methanol from production sites in Bell Bay, Tasmania (ABEL Energy) and Portland, Victoria (HAMR Energy) to Port of Melbourne for storage and bunkering services. The Bell Bay project will use renewable hydro and wind-based power supply.
The MoU will provide a starting point for the parties to work together to explore the various elements of establishing a green methanol bunkering hub and identify any challenges that would need to be addressed.
There is growing momentum worldwide around methanol as a marine fuel, with over 106 methanol-fuelled ships on order as of the end of March, according to analysis by respected source Det Norske Veritas (DNV).
The rise in popularity, especially over the past year, has been boosted by a massive vote of confidence by the shipping company Maersk, the example of which is being followed by many of its peers, including CMA CGM and COSCO.
Port of Melbourne also recently joined the C40 Green Ports Forum, an organisation of leading cities and ports around the world with ambitious goals to mitigate air pollution and greenhouse gas emissions and deliver positive health and economic benefits for communities.
Port of Melbourne’s efforts in sustainability were recognised in 2022 with a 5 Star rating in the GRESB Infrastructure Asset Assessment and was recognised as the most improved in the ports sector.
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