Hapag-Lloyd Wins ZEMBA E-Methanol Shipping Tender: Zero-Emission Transport With E-Methanol From 2027

Hapag-Lloyd won the second zero-emission container shipping tender organised by ZEMBA (Zero Emission Maritime Buyers Alliance). Under the agreement, Hapag-Lloyd will provide service on a transoceanic trade lane with large dual-fuel container vessels using hydrogen-derived e-methanol from 2027 onwards. The contract will run for at least 3 years and will deliver a total of 120,000 tonnes of CO2e emissions abatement.

ZEMBA is a buyer alliance established to catalyse zero-emission maritime transport, bringing together more than 45 global cargo owners including Amazon, IKEA, and Nike. The alliance aims to direct shipowners toward green fuel investments through a demand-based approach. The e-methanol that Hapag-Lloyd will use will be produced from renewable-energy-based hydrogen and captured carbon, offering a 90 per cent reduction in lifecycle emissions compared to fossil fuels.

Hapag-Lloyd executives emphasised that winning the ZEMBA tender is a critical step on the company's path to its 2045 net-zero target. The company has already ordered 24 methanol dual-fuel 23,500 TEU vessels, and these vessels will be deployed in the ZEMBA service. The agreement is regarded as a significant example showing how direct demand from cargo owners can mobilise green maritime fuel supply, beyond regulatory incentives.

Key Takeaways:
1. Hapag-Lloyd won ZEMBA's second zero-emission container shipping tender.
2. The company will provide service on a transoceanic lane using hydrogen-derived e-methanol from 2027 onwards.
3. The contract will deliver 120,000 tonnes of CO2e emissions abatement over a minimum of 3 years.
4. ZEMBA brings together more than 45 global cargo owners, including Amazon, IKEA, and Nike.
5. The e-methanol to be used offers a 90 per cent reduction in lifecycle emissions compared to fossil fuels.