Hapag-Lloyd, Seaspan completes first methanol engine retrofit on Seaspan Yangtze, cutting emissions
The project marks the first phase of a US$120 million investment by Hapag-Lloyd and Seaspan to upgrade five large vessels with dual-fuel technology.
GLOBAL – Hapag-Lloyd and Seaspan Corporation have successfully completed the first conversion under their joint methanol retrofit program, upgrading the 10,100 TEU Seaspan Yangtze from a conventional engine to a dual-fuel capable of operating on methanol.
The programme covers four additional vessels: Seaspan Amazon, Seaspan Ganges, Seaspan Thames, and Seaspan Zambezi, with an overall investment of US$120 million.
Emissions Reduction and Vessel Longevity
Each conversion can reduce CO2e emissions by approximately 30,000 to 50,000 metric tons per vessel per year when operating on low-carbon methanol.
Furthermore, operating these vessels on low-carbon methanol could eliminate up to 50,000 metric tons of CO2e per ship annually. In addition to supporting emissions reductions, the project extends the operational life of existing vessels and increases fuel flexibility.
Retrofitting existing vessels rather than building new ones allows refrigerated cargo capacity to remain in service longer while meeting tightening emissions regulations. A lower carbon footprint per container helps shippers meet their Scope 3 reduction targets for perishable supply chains.
Strategic Partnership and Industry Milestone
The conversion marks an important milestone in the strategic collaboration among Hapag-Lloyd, Seaspan Corporation, and Everllence.
Additionally, Hapag-Lloyd is advancing its sustainability strategy through several levers, including new buildings, dual-fuel retrofits, efficiency improvements across its existing fleet, and sourcing alternative fuels.
Therefore, the Seaspan Yangtze conversion demonstrates the role that existing ships can play in the transition towards low-carbon shipping.
Silke Lehmköster, Managing Director Fleet at Hapag-Lloyd, said: “Retrofitting existing vessels is an important lever on our way to decarbonize our fleet operations by 2045. The successful conversion of the Seaspan Yangtze shows that technical innovation and close cooperation with strong partners can make proven vessels ready for the use of low-carbon fuels. For our customers, this is another concrete step towards more sustainable supply chains.”
Fleet Decarbonization Pathway
The project marks the first phase of a US$120 million investment by Hapag-Lloyd and Seaspan to upgrade five large vessels with dual-fuel technology.
By retrofitting existing ships rather than building new ones, the partners aim to significantly reduce carbon emissions and extend the operational lifespan of their current fleet.
Ultimately, this transition demonstrates how technical innovation and corporate partnerships can effectively modernize global supply chains for a more sustainable future.
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