Watson Farley & Williams (WFW) has advised Norway-headquartered MPC Container Ships ASA (MPCC) of its order for two newbuild 1,300 TEU dual-fuel methanol vessels in partnership with chemical group Elkem ASA (Elkem) and North Sea Container Line (NCL) which will charter both vessels for 15 years.
Each ship costs US$39 million and they are expected to be operational by the second half of 2024.
They will be equipped with a dual-fuel engine layout that allows operation on methanol as well as conventional MGO. In addition to the advanced hull design, there are other solutions to maximise the vessels’ performance, such as shore power connection, battery packs, shaft generators and twisted edge flap rudders.
MPCC is a container shipping company specialising in feeders.
Elkem is a producer of silicones and alloys for the foundry industry. Elkem owns a 40% share of NCL, a container logistics company. The new vessels will replace three of NCL’s diesel vessels.
“We are very pleased to have once again advised MPCC on an important deal with regards to the decarbonisation of the maritime industry. This innovative project will play a significant role in the creation of one of northern Europe’s first green corridors for carbon neutral transportation. That MPCC opted for WFW to assist them again highlights our standing as the ‘go to’ law firm for sustainable shipping expertise,” commented maritime partner and Germany corporate services group head at WFW, Dr. Christian Finnern.
