Hafnia exploring wind propulsion to boost efficiency of its methanol dual-fuel fleet

To improve fuel efficiency and reduce the environmental footprint of its methanol dual-fuel fleet, Singapore-based tanker owner Hafnia has revealed it is exploring the installation of wind-assisted propulsion systems (WAPS) on the new vessels.

In August last year, Hafnia, together with its joint-venture partner Socatra of France, ordered four 49,800 deadweight dual-fuel methanol chemical IMOII MR tankers from China’s Guangzhou Shipyard International (GSI).

These vessels mark an important step in Hafnia’s decarbonization journey, bringing the option for methanol fuel to reduce emissions over time. As dual-fuel vessels, these ships can use both conventional fuel and methanol, enabling a transition to more sustainable fuel options as green methanol becomes more widely available. 

The company now unveiled that the first ship in this series is set for delivery in January 2025, following the successful completion of construction and sea trials. Additionally, the shipowner is evaluating new concepts to boost the vessels’ environmental footprint, namely shaft generators and WAPS, with space allocated for rotor sails.

The vessels will also equipped for future shore power connections, with dedicated areas in the engine room to accommodate transformer sections for high-voltage shore power, contingent on infrastructure capabilities at ports.

The four newbuilds will be time-chartered from Ecomar to TotalEnergies for a multi-year period. They are scheduled for delivery in 2025, with the fourth vessel following in 2026.

The four new ships reflect Hafnia’s commitment to sustainability and long-standing partnership with the energy sector.

“While the methanol-capable vessels are an important step forward, we recognize that full decarbonization is an ongoing journey dependent on a collective maritime industry – and remain focused on actively reducing emissions while exploring further green fuel innovations for our fleet,” Hafnia said.

To remind, in March this year, the company welcomed its fourth LNG dual-fuel product tanker, Hafnia Lillesand.