Green Methanol Bunkering at the Port of Ulsan: A Milestone towards Maritime Decarbonization
The Port of Ulsan, located in South Korea, has achieved a significant breakthrough in the decarbonization of maritime transport with the successful completion of its first ship-to-ship (STS) green methanol bunkering operation for a dual-fuel bulk carrier. This milestone, which took place on September 28, 2025, signifies a crucial step in expanding the port’s capabilities to offer alternative fuels, specifically targeting the bulk sector, which has traditionally been challenging to decarbonize.
Historically, the Port of Ulsan has been a key player in the transition to sustainable fuels. In February 2024, the port accomplished its first green methanol bunkering for a container ship, the ANE MAERSK, marking a milestone in eco-friendly bunkering infrastructure in Asia. This previous success laid the foundation for the development of methanol supply systems and safety procedures.
With the recent operation focusing on bulk carriers, Ulsan has taken the next logical step: demonstrating that methanol bunkering can be safely and efficiently scaled beyond container ships to serve larger fuel-hungry vessel classes.
Details of the Pioneering Operation
- The fueled vessel was the M/V Green Future, a dual-fuel bulk carrier leased by NYK Bulk & Projects Carriers Ltd. and owned by Kambara Kisen Co., Ltd.
- The green methanol, produced by OCI Global and supplied through ITOCHU Corporation, was transferred ship-to-ship at the South Breakwater Pier of the New Port of Ulsan, using fuel stored at the OTK terminal.
- The operation was conducted in accordance with STS safety protocols, reflecting Ulsan’s readiness to handle complex supply operations involving alternative fuels.
This achievement positions Ulsan as a model of safety and efficiency in clean fuel transfer. Green methanol is rapidly emerging as a viable low-carbon fuel for international maritime transport. Compared to conventional marine fuels, it offers lower CO₂ emissions, nearly zero sulfur content, and reduced particulate matter, making it an attractive option for new construction projects and retrofits.
A Strategic Signal for the Global Industry
The successful operation in Ulsan not only represents an accomplishment for the port but also sends a clear signal to the bulk carrier sector regarding decarbonization. According to Jae-young Byeon, president of the Port Authority of Ulsan, this operation is a turning point for decarbonizing bulk carriers, demonstrating that green methanol bunkering is feasible not only for container ships but also scalable for large ocean-going vessels.
By removing the commercial supply risk for a bulk carrier, Ulsan provides practical evidence that methanol can be deployed beyond controlled trials or regular liner routes. This is likely to accelerate orders for new vessels and retrofit decisions in the bulk segment, which is under increasing regulatory pressure to reduce emissions.
This presents a strategic opportunity for industry players as they can consider green methanol as a realistic and safe option to meet their sustainability goals and future regulations. Additionally, for maritime investors, it represents a chance to engage in projects at the forefront of maritime innovation and sustainability.
Ulsan: Rising as a Green Bunkering Hub
The Port of Ulsan, known for being an industrial and maritime hub in South Korea, is strategically investing in low and zero-carbon fuel infrastructure. With a strong foundation in shipbuilding, petrochemicals, and logistics, the port is quickly becoming a central node in the sustainable shipping ecosystem of the Asia-Pacific.
The bunkering test exercises conducted in 2023 and 2024, along with the renowned ANE MAERSK operation in February 2024, solidify Ulsan’s transition from a traditional fuel port to one prepared for the future, capable of offering multiple fuels.
For maritime professionals and sailors interested in job opportunities, Ulsan’s success in green methanol bunkering opens the door to submitting their resumes to companies involved in this green transition. Vessels like the Green Future require trained and specialized personnel in this emerging field.
The Port of Ulsan: An Energetic Industrial Logistics Centre in Korea
Managed by the Port Authority of Ulsan, this port is positioned as South Korea’s largest industrial entry point and a vital component of global maritime logistics. Strategically located on the southeast coast, Ulsan is the maritime face of the city, specializing in shipbuilding, automobile manufacturing, and petrochemicals.
The port stands out for its advanced infrastructure and expertise, particularly in handling bulk liquid cargo, making it indispensable in Korea’s energy and chemical sectors. This infrastructure is designed to handle large volumes of crude oil, petroleum products, and chemical liquids, positioning Ulsan as the number one port for bulk liquid cargo in Korea.
Directly connected to the Ulsan National Industrial Complex, the port serves key players like Hyundai Motor Company and S-Oil, among others. Additionally, Ulsan is the designated site for South Korea’s Northeast Asian Oil Hub, a national project aimed at transforming the region into a key hub for global oil trade, storage, and logistics.
Future Vision and Sustainable Development
The strategy of the Port Authority of Ulsan is focused on sustainability, innovation, and expansion, encapsulated in its vision of being a leading eco-smart port in energy logistics. The port aims to establish itself as a global hub for
