World’s first methanol tug launched by Port of Antwerp

In an EU approved project, the Port of Antwerp has converted a tug to methanol propulsion. The ground-breaking conversion is part of the port’s effort to demonstrate the viability of methanol as a marine fuel. The vessel, nick-named the “methatug” will enter service in early 2022.

According to the port, the conversion required EU approval in order to comply with the Central Commission for Navigation on the Rhine’s (CCNR) regulations which had previously forbidden the use of methanol on inland craft. With the special dispensation the tug is now fully CESNI compliant.

Jacques Vandermeiren, CEO of Port of Antwerp said “Together with our partners, we are constantly looking for innovative applications and opportunities for the transition to alternative and renewable energy sources.

“This methatug is a further and important step in the transition towards a sustainable and CO2-neutral port that has enabled us to overcome a variety of technical and regulatory challenges.”