Proman Stena Bulk, a joint venture between a leading global methanol producer Proman and one of the world’s largest tanker shipping companies Stena Bulk, recently confirmed that the first methanol-powered new build vessel under its partnership has been delivered and is preparing for commercial operation.
Stena Pro Patria is named in honour of Dennis Patrick, an integral member of the Proman family and the longstanding former CEO of Proman’s subsidiary Methanol Holdings (Trinidad) Ltd (MHTL), who passed away in 2019.
The vessel will run on methanol, representing Proman Stena Bulk’s commitment to methanol’s role as part of the shipping industry’s sustainable fuels pathway.
With an expected consumption of 12,500 tonnes of methanol marine fuel per annum, the Stena Pro Patria will be a low-emission vessel, eliminating local pollutants including SOx and Particulate matters, cutting NOx emissions by 60 per cent and reducing CO2 emissions versus conventional marine fuels.
Being a pioneer in the petrochemical industry, Trinidad and Tobago has a remarkable opportunity to benefit from this development as a leading producer of methanol, and Proman's existing Point Lisas plants and infrastructure are well-positioned to enable emissions reduction targets across the maritime sector.
The delivery of the Stena Pro Patria represents an important milestone for Proman Stena Bulk. It is a significant step forward as the JV continues its ambition to support the development of methanol as a proven marine fuel and the role it can play as part of global shipping’s urgent transition to a more sustainable future.
With impending regulation from the International Maritime Organisation (IMO) – in the shape of EEXI and CII from 2023 – as well as increasing demand from cargo owners and financiers for higher environmental standards, these vessels set a new benchmark for MR tanker sustainability.
Equipped with the latest generation MAN dual-fuel engines, the Stena Pro Patria will feature state-of-the-art energy efficiency technology, including continually controlled combustion, optimised tuning, redesigned and aerodynamic hull lines, and an energy shaft generator, reducing fuel consumption and helping to meet and go beyond IMO compliance criteria.
David Cassidy, chief executive of Proman, said: “The delivery of the Stena Pro Patria represents a major milestone for the success of our joint venture with Stena Bulk, as well as sending an important message to the market – that methanol is a reliable and available marine fuel that can reduce global shipping emissions in the short, medium and long term.
“The vessel’s state-of-the-art fuel consumption and engine technology are important steps towards more sustainable shipping; it will be vital as new low-emission fuels emerge to also focus on energy efficiency. We hope today’s news and our continued investment and commitment will encourage others to accelerate their transition to cleaner fuels like methanol, benefiting from immediate emissions savings while also sending out strong dema
