Methanol bunkering pilot powers ahead

The project has the intention to test and prepare port infrastructure and port operations at the ports of Los Angeles and Long Beach for handling methanol as an alternative fuel, supporting the wider decarbonisation of maritime shipping.

By investing in this infrastructure now, the ports aim to position themselves at the forefront of the global transition to alternative fuels and low-carbon logistics.

Promising alternative

Methanol is emerging as a promising marine fuel due to its lower emissions profile and compatibility with existing vessel technologies.

The pilot will test practical approaches to delivering methanol safely and efficiently, helping to establish protocols that could be replicated at ports worldwide.

In doing so, the hope is that it will strengthen the region’s port infrastructure, enhance port operations and attract investment in cleaner energy solutions.

The project also supports California’s and the maritime industry’s broader goals for carbon neutrality, aiming to accelerate the shift from fossil fuels while maintaining world-class operational standards.

Insights gained will guide the development of future large-scale methanol bunkering methodology and help reduce risk for early adopters.

Responses to the Request for Information are due by 23:59 PT on 22 October 2025. For queries, contact yprokofyeva@c40.org, ports@c40.org or hong.yang@icf.com