WATCH: Immingham focuses in on bio-methanol

The Humber-based port, owned by Associated British Ports, is the UK’s largest by cargo volume and a key gateway for energy and bulk materials. Its new capability positions Immingham at the forefront of supplying low-carbon fuels to the maritime sector.

LISTEN: Leading the UK’s green energy transition

The service has been launched in partnership with Exolum, Methanex Corporation and Ørsted. Exolum will operate the storage and fuelling infrastructure at its Immingham facility, while Methanex will supply the bio-methanol. Ørsted will be the first operator to bunker at the port, fuelling its North Sea offshore wind farm service vessels.

“This initiative marks a significant milestone for the Port of Immingham and the wider maritime sector,” said Steven Clapperton, head of Marine (Humber) at Associated British Ports.

“By enabling biomethanol bunkering, we are taking practical steps toward decarbonising one of the hardest-to-abate industries. Associated British Ports is proud to support partners like Exolum, Ørsted, and Methanex in driving innovation that aligns with the UK’s clean energy ambitions and positions our ports at the forefront of sustainable shipping.”

Stephen Land, North-West Europe chief executive at Exolum, described the project as a ‘groundbreaking example’ of how existing infrastructure can be adapted to support the green transition.

With domestic shipping responsible for 4.7% of UK transport-related CO₂ emissions, more than buses, trains and domestic aviation combined, the development at Immingham represents a significant step in cutting maritime emissions while reinforcing the port’s role as a strategic energy hub.

READ MORE: Boosting the UK’s green energy supply