The methanol will be transported via sea and land to Shanghai’s port for use in methanol-powered containerships operated by CMA CGM. The French company welcomed its first methanol dual-fuel vessel, the 13,000 TEU CMA CGM Iron, earlier this year, part of a 12-ship plan.
In March 2025, Shanghai Electric, CMA CGM, and Shanghai International Port Group (SIPG) partnered to create a green methanol supply chain. Shanghai Electric will supply fuel for CMA CGM’s vessels, with SIPG managing logistics to Shanghai Yangshan Port, the world’s largest container port.
Utilizing Taonan’s wind and biomass resources, the CNY 5.6 billion project builds a sustainable energy and chemical production chain. It includes a 250,000-ton green methanol facility and 680,000 kilowatts of renewable energy capacity. Launched in March 2024, the first phase produces 50,000 tons annually, aiming for 250,000 tons by 2027. The project earned EU ISCC certification, enabling global market access.
Wu Lei, Chairman of Shanghai Electric, stated: “Taonan project is an important ‘practice’ for Shanghai Electric to serve the national strategy, develop new productivity, build core competitiveness, and achieve high-quality development.” It promotes green fuel use in shipping and supports global decarbonization.
On February 18, 2025, China unveiled the 16,136 TEU COSCO Shipping Yangpu, its first large methanol dual-fuel containership, advancing sustainable shipping solutions.
