ESL Shipping, a Finnish shipping company, has announced the order of four new methanol-fueled bulk carriers from China Merchants Jinling Shipyard in Nanjing.
These Handysize bulkers will be equipped with an ice-class rating of 1A and can operate entirely without fossil fuels by utilizing e-methanol produced from green hydrogen or biomethanol. The total cost for the quartet is approximately €186 million, with an option for ESL Shipping to expand the order with additional vessels. The bulk carriers are expected to be operational between the third quarter of 2027 and the first quarter of 2028.
Mikki Koskinen, Managing Director of ESL Shipping, highlighted the company’s commitment to sustainability and its ability to provide reliable infrastructure for the green transition in the Nordic region. The design of these vessels has been a collaborative effort with Finnish ship designer Deltamarin and the Swedish SSPA model test facility to ensure they meet future needs.
Key equipment, including the powertrain with battery hybrid drive and cargo handling systems, will be sourced from European companies, emphasizing ESL Shipping’s focus on local partnerships.
Rolf Jansson, CEO of Aspo and Chairman of ESL Shipping, remarked, “This investment aligns perfectly with Aspo’s vision and financial goals, as we aim to lead in supporting our industrial partners in delivering completely fossil-free products and services. Investing in these sustainable Handysize vessels is a logical next step, especially given the success of our ongoing investments in low-emission hybrid coasters.”
Earlier this year, ESL Shipping joined the Science Based Targets initiative (SBTi), committing to establish near-term and long-term emission reduction targets that support the global goal of limiting warming to 1.5°C above pre-industrial levels.