Fuel supply systems provider Auramarine has signed a cooperation agreement with logistics service company A2B-online to provide methanol safety systems and automation for the latter’s two newbuild 650 TEU methanol-fueled container vessels.
As informed, the new vessels are designed with sustainability at the core and will feature the latest technologies to cut CO2 emissions by up to 95%. They will be equipped with a multi-fuel methanol propulsion system, shore power and battery capacity, enabling emission-free operations in ports and inland waters.
The container vessels will be constructed at the Sedef Shipyard in Turkey and when complete, they will operate between Moerdijk in the Netherlands and Immingham in the UK. Auramarine’s systems will be delivered to the Sedef Shipyard in the first half of 2025.
READ MORE A2B-online places order for methanol-ready, hybrid boxship pair To note, safety systems and automation are said to be essential in ensuring the safe operation of the vessels, such as the detection of potential gas leaks, as well as in meeting safety regulations.
John Bergman, CEO of Auramarine, commented: “We are delighted to welcome A2B-online and Sedef Shipyard as our customers. Their extensive expertise in shipbuilding, emphasis on sustainability, utilising eco-friendly technologies and future fuels make this an important collaboration for all parties. This partnership is another significant step for Auramarine as we look to support the shipping industry in driving the uptake of new fuels and innovations that improve its sustainability and help it meet decarbonisation targets.”
Koen Houtkoop, Naval Architect from A2B-online Ship Management, stated: “In our drive to develop the best future proof methanol powered vessels we found the right partner in Auramarine. Auramarine has both the right equipment and professional expertise in house for our project.”
In 2024, Auramarine signed contracts with various companies, the most recent being with shipping company Meriaura to provide two shipsets of diesel fuel oil (DFO) and liquid biofuel (LBO) supply systems, which will be used onboard two Meriaura cargo ships to be built by the Dutch shipyard Royal Bodewes.
It is also worth mentioning that the company was contracted to provide its methanol fuel supply system (FSS) for the “world’s first methanol-powered tugs.” These tugs are owned by Kotug Canada and will be built by Turkish Sanmar Shipyards.