Vale Orders World’s First Ethanol-Powered Guaibamax Bulk Carriers

Credit: K Line

Brazil’s mining giant Vale has signed a long-term agreement with Shandong Shipping Corporation to build the world’s first ethanol-powered Guaibamax bulk carriers, according to NextShip. The project strengthens Vale’s multi-fuel shipping strategy and supports its long-term decarbonization goals.

The deal covers two 325,000-DWT vessels under 25-year charter contracts, with options for additional ships. Besides ethanol, the carriers will also operate on methanol and conventional fuel oil and remain convertible to LNG or ammonia in the future. Each ship will include five rotor sails and advanced efficiency technologies expected to reduce emissions by about 15% versus current Guaibamax vessels, while second-generation ethanol could cut lifecycle emissions by up to 90% compared with heavy fuel oil. The newbuildings will complement 10 methanol-capable Guaibamax vessels scheduled for delivery from 2027 under Vale’s Ecoshipping program, which focuses on alternative fuels and energy-efficient ore transport.

Global News

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