X-Press Feeders, the world’s largest independent common carrier, has unveiled its second green methanol-powered route, the Green Baltic X-PRESS (GBX), as part of Europe’s inaugural scheduled feeder network fueled by green methanol.
Following the successful launch of the Green Finland X-PRESS (GFX) in July, this new route marks a significant step forward in the company’s dedication to sustainable shipping.)
Starting operations on 23 August, the Green Baltic X-PRESS (GBX) will connect the ports of Rotterdam, Antwerp-Bruges, Klaipeda, Riga, and Rotterdam.
This new route is made possible by the addition of the Eco-Umande, the third dual-fuel vessel in X-Press Feeders’ fleet, alongside Eco-Maestro and Eco-Levant.
These ships, equipped with advanced, fuel-efficient technology, have a nominal TEU capacity of 1,260 and are designed to run on green methanol, further establishing X-Press Feeders as a leader in eco-friendly maritime transport.
In addition, the company’s innovative feeder network is powered by green methanol, a sustainable marine fuel that can reduce greenhouse gas emissions by up to 65% when used for main engine propulsion, compared to traditional fuels. Green methanol is a renewable energy source derived from the decomposition of organic matter, including waste and residues. X-Press Feeders ensures that the green methanol it utilizes is independently certified in Europe under the International Sustainability and Carbon Certification (ISCC).
The launch of the GBX route aligns with the recent implementation of the EU’s emissions trading scheme (ETS) for maritime shipping, which began on January 1, encouraging the industry to adopt greener practices. Moreover, the upcoming Fuel EU Maritime regulations, set to take effect in January 2025, will mandate a reduction in the greenhouse gas emission intensity of energy used onboard ships.
Rotterdam has been chosen as the initial base for this green methanol-powered network, thanks to its advanced infrastructure and capacity for green methanol refueling. X-Press Feeders has also signed a memorandum of understanding with ports in Antwerp-Bruges, Klaipeda, Riga, Tallinn, Helsinki, and HaminaKotka, demonstrating a commitment to promoting sustainable shipping across the region.
With 14 dual-fuel vessels on order, X-Press Feeders plans to further expand its green methanol-powered network throughout Europe, offering more companies the opportunity to meet their sustainability targets through greener shipping solutions.
