Proman has finalised an agreement to build two additional 49,900-dwt methanol dual-fuel MR tankers, bringing its total investment in methanol-powered vessels to six newbuildings
Proman will be the sole owner of Provident and Progressive, alongside Promise which is due to be delivered Q3 2022. These vessels join Proman’s expanding fleet, including its three jointly owned methanol dual-fuel tankers with partner Stena Bulk.
The new vessels will also be built at Guangzhou Shipyard International, for delivery in Q4 2023.
Provident and Progressive will be traded globally for shipping chemicals and clean petroleum products, enabling shipowners worldwide to experience the benefits of these state-of-the-art, renewable-ready, methanol-powered vessels.
The new vessels will utilise the same pioneering vessel design and innovative MAN B&W 6G50ME-C9.6 MW Tier III engines as Promise and Proman Stena Bulk-owned Stena Pro Patria, Stena Pro Mare and Stena Prosperous.
The vessels will also be equipped with the latest energy efficiency technology, including continually controlled combustion, optimised tuning, redesigned and aerodynamic hull lines, and an energy shaft generator, reducing fuel consumption and helping to meet strict emissions criteria.
Each vessel will use approximately 12,500 tonnes per annum of methanol as a marine fuel. Using widely available ‘grey’ methanol produced from natural gas, greenhouse gas emissions in the vessels’ normal commercial operations will be significantly reduced compared with conventional marine fuels, including the virtual elimination of sulphur and particulate matter, 60% reduction of nitrogen oxide and 10-15% cut in carbon dioxide.
Proman chief executive David Cassidy said “This is a significant and exciting investment for Proman. It reflects not only our continued growth but also our commitment to leading the way to a greener shipping future.
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