Hapag-Lloyd Completes First SIMOPS Bunkering of Goldwind Biomethanol at Busan

Hapag-Lloyd has completed its first simultaneous operations (SIMOPS) bunkering of ISCC EU-certified biomethanol supplied by Goldwind, marking another step in the container carrier’s preparations for methanol-fuelled operations.

The biomethanol was supplied to the container ship Seaspan Amazon at Busan, South Korea. SIMOPS allows bunkering to take place while other vessel and port operations continue in parallel.

Biomethanol supplied through international supply chain

The biomethanol was produced at Goldwind’s integrated facility in Hinggan League, China, before being transported through an international supply chain to Busan.

The operation provides experience across the fuel supply chain, from production and transportation to marine bunkering and vessel operations, as the companies prepare for larger-scale alternative-fuel deployment.

Delivery builds on 2024 fuel supply agreement

The Busan bunkering follows a long-term fuel supply agreement signed by Hapag-Lloyd and Goldwind in 2024.

Under the agreement, Goldwind is expected to supply 250,000 tonnes per year of a bio- and e-methanol blend from the end of 2027.

Hapag-Lloyd said the early biomethanol delivery will allow both companies to gain operational experience and further develop the logistics required to support future large-scale methanol supply.

Hapag-Lloyd expands methanol vessel operations

The Busan operation follows recent biomethanol bunkering involving Seaspan Amazon and Seaspan Yangtze, giving Hapag-Lloyd additional experience with alternative marine fuels.

Seaspan Amazon previously received 3,000 tonnes of biomethanol at Shanghai at the end of August, coinciding with the completion of its conversion to methanol dual-fuel propulsion.

Hapag-Lloyd plans to convert five large containerships to methanol dual-fuel operation during 2026 and 2027. The bunkering operations are intended to build practical experience as the carrier expands its methanol-capable fleet and prepares for increased availability of alternative marine fuels.