Ocean Network Express Pte. Ltd. (ONE) has signed Ship Building Contracts with Jiangnan Shipyard and Yangzijiang Shipbuilding for a total construction of twelve 13,000 TEU methanol dual-fuel container ships.

ONE said in the announcement that each shipyard will build six vessels, which are all scheduled to be delivered from 2027.

The Japanese shipping company noted that this milestone represents ONE's inaugural fleet of methanol-dual fuel vessels and plays a "key role" in reaching ONE's sustainable goals as part of its Green Strategy.

"This investment and purchase are aligned with ONE's stringent procurement policy aimed at meeting customer demand and being adaptable for any future change in global sustainable supply chains," it added.

ONE noted that in the current maritime and sustainability landscape, methanol is anticipated to hold significant potential for emission reduction.

Moreover, these vessels will include state-of-the-art technologies such as optimized hull form, waste heat recovery systems and bow windshields.

Selected vessels will also be equipped with an air lubrication system and shaft generator to help with exploring potential enhancements in fuel efficiency and the reduction of greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions.

ONE said these innovations can help accelerate ONE's decarbonization efforts and ensure compliance is in line with regulations in the shipping industry.

"Our decision to invest in methanol-dual fuel vessels aligns with ONE's Green Strategy as part of our key initiatives. The upcoming new fleet is pivotal in achieving our goal of deploying the first alternative fuel ships by 2030 and marks a significant milestone in our journey towards a greener and more sustainable maritime industry," said Jeremy Nixon, CEO of ONE.

ONE's Green Strategy has an ambitious target to achieve net-zero GHG emissions, encompassing Scope 2 and 3, by 2050. 

To achieve the target, a transition from conventional fuel to alternative fuels is defined as ONE's key pillar of Green initiatives.