Guangzhou, as one of China's major ports, is striving to transform green methanol loading into a regular service by optimizing operational processes and improving legal coordination with the cities of Shenzhen and Hong Kong. Wu Jiao, a member of the Guangzhou Port Authority, stated that the port successfully completed green methanol loading for three different types of vessels within 40 days in September and October.
Experience of Green Methanol Loading
The first green methanol loading operation took place on September 6, 2026, when the cargo ship Green Future received 1,021 tons of green methanol at Dayushan anchorage. This fuel has ISCC EU certification. On September 28, the same ship supplied 300 tons of green methanol to the container ship COSCO Shipping Carnation at the Phase II terminal Nansha, allowing loading operations to continue during refueling.
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On October 16, the car carrier Guang Rong received 1,400 tons of green methanol at the Nansha car terminal. This operation made Guangzhou the first port in the world to perform green methanol loading for cargo ships, container ships, and car carriers.
Future Plans and Infrastructure
The Guangzhou Port Authority continues to review the three loading operations conducted to enhance efficiency and facilitate discussions between suppliers and marine fuel users. Wu Jiao added, "To develop green fuel infrastructure, it is essential to identify the fuel needs of different vessels. We believe that each port has specific advantages and geographical resources that shape the selection of alternative fuel supply routes."
Guangzhou can currently supply LNG, biofuels, and green methanol and is working with the Port of Los Angeles to develop a green maritime corridor. The two ports signed an agreement in October 2023 to collaborate on the corridor, digital supply chain infrastructure, and other emission reduction initiatives.
Additionally, Guangzhou is pursuing the electrification of vessels and the necessary facilities to support it. Wu Jiao stated, "In the Greater Bay Area, our focus is on planning and constructing charging and battery swapping facilities for vessels." Guangzhou Port has also implemented electrification in all its operations, and the electric tugboat Suigang Diantuo 01 was put into service in April 2025.
Moreover, a battery-powered container transport route between Nansha and Hong Kong International Terminals was launched on October 13, with its first trip made by the vessel Sui Gang Dian Hang 02.
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