The world’s first containership powered by green methanol has officially been named in Copenhagen, Denmark by the President of the European Commission Ursula von der Leyen.
“I name you Laura Maersk. As you sail the waters of the world, may your journeys be smooth and your tasks successful. May you bring happiness to the crew and be a safe haven for all who board you and may you bring prosperity and pride to all. I wish you God’s speed,” von der Leyen said before smashing the bottle on the ship’s hull and officially revealing the feeder’s name.
The ship was named after the company’s first steamship vessel, Laura, which sailed the seas with a Maersk star on its hull during the Industrial Revolution. The green methanol-powered Laura Maersk symbolizes a new era for the company, which has become a first mover for the shipping industry as it enters a new chapter of a decarbonized future.
The groundbreaking event marked a major milestone in the shipping industry’s transition towards sustainability and environmental responsibility. It was attended by a diverse audience, including industry leaders, and environmentally conscious individuals from around the world.
The cutting-edge 2,100 TEU container vessel, powered by green methanol, and classed by ABS, was built at South Korea’s Hyundai Mipo Dockyard.
MAN Energy Solutions and Hyundai Engine and Machinery, in collaboration with Hyundai Mipo and Maersk, developed the methanol propulsion configuration for the vessel. The main engine was supplied by Hyundai Engine and Machinery, while the auxiliary engine was supplied by Himsen.
The feeder will be followed by 24 large ocean-going vessels of 9,000-17,200 TEU capacity which are scheduled for delivery in 2024 and 2027.
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