Methanol for Shipping Project breaks new ground in inland shipping

In a key development, the chemical tanker Stolt IJssel has become the first inland vessel in Europe to receive certification for methanol operations. This certification was granted by CESNI, the European authority responsible for setting inland shipping standards, and the ADN, the regulatory body for the carriage of dangerous goods. Both bodies have confirmed that Stolt IJssel meets the stringent safety and environmental requirements needed to operate with methanol—a climate-neutral fuel that presents a significant departure from conventional diesel.

By mid-next year, one of the vessel’s engines will be converted to run on methanol, marking the beginning of a year-long trial. During this period, operational data will be gathered to assess methanol’s performance as a fuel in daily shipping activities. The results will provide critical insights that could shape the future sustainability of inland shipping.

The Methanol for Shipping project, backed by RVO and various industry partners, represents a crucial step towards reducing the environmental impact of inland waterways.