Taiwanese shipping company TS Lines has commissioned four methanol-ready containerships from CSSC Huangpu Wenchong, a subsidiary of China State Shipbuilding Corporation. The agreement involves the construction of four 5,300 TEU vessels, with delivery expected in 2028. Each ship is priced at approximately $61.2 million, as reported by Greek shipbroker Intermodal.

This order follows TS Lines’ previous contract with another CSSC subsidiary, Shanghai Waigaoqiao Shipbuilding, for four boxships, including two 14,000 TEU methanol-powered vessels. These methanol-fueled ships will feature advanced desulfurization, carbon reduction, energy-saving, and drag reduction technologies, designed to enhance efficiency, lower fuel consumption, and reduce carbon emissions.

A recent report from the Global Maritime Forum, titled “From pilots to practice: Methanol and ammonia as shipping fuels,” highlights the rapid progress of methanol and ammonia as viable shipping fuels. The report notes that methanol is now ready for low-carbon operations, marking significant advancements in its development. While not yet widely adopted, these fuels are expected to play a key role in decarbonizing the shipping industry.

“Methanol and ammonia require new infrastructure and coordinated development of land- and sea-based technologies,” the Global Maritime Forum stated. “Piloting and demonstration projects are critical to building a mature supply chain for these fuels.”

The adoption of methanol-ready and methanol-powered vessels reflects TS Lines’ commitment to sustainable shipping practices. The 5,300 TEU ships will incorporate designs that allow for future methanol use, aligning with industry trends toward cleaner fuel alternatives. The larger 14,000 TEU vessels, ordered last year, are equipped to operate directly on methanol, further reducing environmental impact through innovative technology.

TS Lines’ investment in these advanced vessels positions the company to meet growing global demand for sustainable maritime transport. By partnering with CSSC subsidiaries, TS Lines leverages cutting-edge shipbuilding expertise to enhance its fleet’s efficiency and environmental performance. The 2028 delivery of the new containerships will strengthen the company’s capacity to serve international trade routes while supporting the shipping industry’s transition to lower-carbon operations.

This strategic move underscores the importance of collaboration between shipping companies and shipbuilders in developing technologies that address environmental challenges. As methanol gains traction as a viable fuel, TS Lines’ orders contribute to the global effort to create a more sustainable maritime sector.