World Fuel Services, Miami, Fla., and West Coast Clean Fuels, San Rafael, Calif., said they have established a methanol bunkering capability available to vessel owners and operators across U.S. ports following the completion of an over-the-water methanol bunker fuel delivery in South Florida last month.
The companies said the operation demonstrated a truck-to-ship methanol bunkering process designed to meet U.S. regulatory and safety requirements and capable of being deployed at multiple ports nationwide.
According to the companies, the bunkering capability includes U.S. Coast Guard-approved procedures, trained personnel, and purpose-built equipment for methanol fuel transfers. West Coast Clean Fuels said its truck-to-ship methanol bunkering procedures have received approval from the Coast Guard, and the company has developed infrastructure intended to be deployed to additional ports as demand develops.
The methanol bunkering program was developed over several years and included risk assessments, operational planning, emergency response procedures, equipment procurement, and personnel training conducted in coordination with the Coast Guard. The companies said elements of the operational approach were incorporated into recent regulatory guidance related to methanol bunkering operations.
World Fuel Services said its marine fuel supply network and transaction platform will support the delivery and commercial side of methanol bunkering, while West Coast Clean Fuels provides technical and operational expertise for methanol fuel transfers.
Methanol is gaining attention as an alternative marine fuel due to its potential to reduce emissions compared with conventional marine fuels, and several vessel operators and shipowners are evaluating methanol-capable vessels and fuel supply options.
The companies said the methanol bunkering capability is available for deployment across U.S. ports to support vessel operators exploring methanol as part of lower-emission fuel strategies.
