Logistics company Unifeeder has signed a long-term charter for two methanol-capable container feeder vessels, exercising an option from its initial two vessel agreement with Elbdeich Reederei and signing a new contract with MPC Container Ships (MPCC).
The new agreement will see two 1,250 TEU vessels delivered to Unifeeder in 2026 for use in Europe, with Elbdeich Reederei and MPCC responsible for one vessel each.
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Jesper Kristensen, Group CEO of Unifeeder, said: “This marks another significant stride towards the green transformation of our fleet and operations. We anticipate the vessels to enter into operation in the next two years, advancing our steadfast commitment to sustainable solutions.”
Unifeeder first signed an agreement for two vessels with Elbdeich Reederei in October 2023, with those ships also set for delivery in 2026, as part of its aim to achieve carbon neutrality by 2040 and net zero emissions by 2050.
The DP World owned company said it will also be working on improving fuel efficiency throughout its fleet as part of its sustainability efforts, aiming for an interim target of a 25% reduction in emissions by 2030.
Methanol powered vessels have become a popular investment for shipping companies as part of sustainability targets in recent years, especially following Maersk’s use of the first methanol-powered feeder container ship last year.
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By GlobalDataUnifeeder’s use of the vessels in Europe also ties into a stronger push to reduce emissions around the continent after the EU’s expansion of the emissions trading scheme came into force for the shipping industry at the beginning of 2024.
