RMI – Supplying Green Methanol and Ammonia at Ports

The shipping industry is moving towards new fuels in order to achieve net zero emissions by 2050, as outlined by the International Maritime Organization's Greenhouse Strategy. Green methanol and green ammonia are viewed as promising options for decarbonization. However, there are uncertainties surrounding their availability, which hinders investment in zero-emission ships. This study aims to explore the sources, cost, and availability of these fuels by 2030, with a focus on ports as key players in unlocking the supply of new fuels. While some ports may produce green methanol and ammonia locally, others will rely on trade. The study also examines global projects aiming to produce these fuels by 2030 and considers scenarios for securing supply at bunker ports. The results suggest that supply patterns for green methanol and green ammonia may differ significantly, with potential concentrations in major bunkering hubs for methanol and diversified trade routes for ammonia. Green ammonia from the US is expected to be the most cost-competitive globally due to tax credit incentives.