AD Ports Group has signed a collaboration agreement with Masdar, Advario and the CMA CGM Group to explore the feasibility of an e-methanol bunkering and export facility at Khalifa Port and Khalifa Economic Zones Abu Dhabi – KEZAD Group.
The project will provide critical infrastructure to complete the supply value chain and bridge commercial e-methanol production with key off-takers, such as CMA CGM, thereby supporting the acceleration of the decarbonisation of the global shipping industry.
The collaboration agreement follows a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) signed in 2023 between AD Ports Group and Masdar to explore the development of a green hydrogen hub within KEZAD. Last year, Masdar also signed a strategic supply partnership with CMA CGM to assess the long-term provision of green maritime fuels for the company’s fleet.
This latest agreement aligns with the Abu Dhabi Low Carbon Hydrogen Policy and the UAE’s National Hydrogen Strategy, which targets the scaling up of local hydrogen production to 1.4 million tonnes per annum by 2031 and 15 million tonnes per annum by 2050.
Saif Al Mazrouei, Chief Executive Officer – Ports Cluster, AD Ports Group, said: “The signing of this agreement marks an important milestone in our journey towards creating a more sustainable and environmentally responsible maritime industry.
The development of an e-methanol facility in Khalifa Port will not only support the growth of the shipping industry but also contribute to the reduction of carbon emissions and the promotion of clean energy sources.”
Dr Faye Al Hersh, Head of Green Hydrogen Business Development (UAE), Masdar, said: “Green hydrogen and its derivatives, such as e-methanol, are pivotal in decarbonising hard-to-abate sectors like shipping, helping drive the global shift toward net zero.
“With over 80 per cent of global trade transported by sea, fostering strategic partnerships is essential to establishing robust green hydrogen value chains and ensuring a more sustainable maritime industry.
“E-methanol has the potential to revolutionise the shipping sector by offering a viable pathway to significantly cut emissions. By collaborating with AD Ports Group, Advario and CMA CGM, we are strengthening the UAE’s position as a leader in sustainable innovation and making meaningful strides towards a cleaner, greener future.”
Last month, AD Ports Group signed several agreements to expand its operations in Kazakhstan.
