A P Moller - Maersk (Maersk) and the Spanish Government have signed a ‘General Protocol for Collaboration’ to explore the opportunities for large-scale green fuels production in Spain.
According to a statement from Maersk, if implemented in full, it could deliver up to two million tonnes of green fuels per year.
The project aims to explore the feasibility of covering the full value chain - from renewable energy sources to bunkering of vessels.
The parties are reviewing production opportunities in the Andalusia and Galicia regions. It has an overall estimated potential to generate up to around 85 000 jobs, including construction and temporary positions.
"This project is perfectly aligned with Spain's strategy of reindustrialisation, just transition and the green hydrogen roadmap, advancing in the fulfilment of the common commitment of decarbonisation of the European Union. It will also strengthen economic, political and commercial ties with Denmark, a partner and a friend in the EU,” says Pedro Sánchez, President of the Government of Spain.
The availability of green energy and fuels in sufficient quantities and at cost-competitive price levels remains the main challenge for the decarbonisation of global shipping.
Maersk alone needs approximately six million tonnes of green methanol per year to reach its 2030 milestone fleet emissions target - and even larger amounts by 2040 for its fleet to reach net-zero.
The 19 vessels capable of running on green methanol that Maersk will put into operation during 2023-2025 will require approximately 750 000 tonnes of green methanol.
