Maersk, a Danish shipping company uses green methanol in its fleet of ships
AD Ports Group, the operator of industrial cities and free zones in Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates, is leading a consortium to establish a green methanol plant in Egypt.
Green methanol, derived from biomass like plant waste, is a sustainable synthetic fuel produced without harmful emissions, making it a viable alternative to fossil fuels. It can be generated from green hydrogen, serving as a low-carbon liquid fuel and offering a promising solution to the challenge of decarbonization in various industries.
Green, Blue and Grey Methanol – Explained
Green methanol (or bio-methanol) can be produced through various methods like biological pathways, thermo-chemical pathways, or electrofuel pathways. Blue methanol involves blue hydrogen and carbon capture technology, while grey methanol is derived from natural gas.
The new plant in Egypt aims to provide low-carbon fuel for maritime transport, opening up opportunities for clean energy storage solutions worldwide. This facility will cater to shipping companies ordering green methanol-powered vessels, supporting the transition to greener practices in the industry.
Collaborating with the UAE can help address security challenges in maritime routes, such as the Suez Canal, and promote peace in the region. In addition, developing eco-friendly projects in other countries can earn carbon credits through UN mechanisms, contributing to global environmental efforts.
The AD Ports Group has partnered with Egyptian companies to develop storage and export facilities for green methanol, aligning with the UAE’s decarbonization goals and advancing the energy transition in shipping. This initiative is expected to drive the adoption of green hydrogen and position the UAE as a leader in environmental stewardship and economic diversification.
