The Institute of Marine Engineers (India) (IMEI), in collaboration with the Methanol Institute (MI), successfully hosted a seminar titled “Methanol as a Marine Fuel: Pathways to Decarbonization” at IMEI House, Navi Mumbai on March 27th. The event brought together maritime professionals, government representatives, classification societies, and technical experts to explore methanol’s growing role in sustainable shipping and India’s energy transition.
The seminar began with a welcome address read on behalf of Mr David Birwadkar, Chairman, IMEI Mumbai Branch, by Mr Saanjeev V Mehra, Hon Secretary, IME(I) Mumbai Branch assuring of IME(I)’s commitment to conduct such seminars on relevant topics to increase awareness regarding issues of concern, current developments and new regulatory orders approved. This was followed by a safety briefing by Mr. Mohan Singh Pal, Director IME(I) who outlined emergency procedures and venue safety protocols, ensuring a secure and well-coordinated experience for all attendees.
Chief Guest Mr Ajithkumar Sukumaran, Chief Surveyor-cum-Addl. DG (Engg.), DG Shipping delivered an engaging and forward-looking keynote address. He shared insights into India’s evolving maritime regulatory landscape and took several audience questions, leaving participants with practical takeaways and a renewed sense of urgency for embracing cleaner fuels.
The technical session featured expert presentations by Mr. Kjeld Aabo, Senior Technical Advisor – Maritime Transport, and Ms. Prakriti Sethi, Chief India Representative, Methanol Institute. Highlights included:
• E-Methanol and Bio-Methanol Developments: Updates on global and Indian projects showing rapid scaling of renewable methanol production.
• Engine and Retrofit Options: Practical insights into the adoption of methanol-compatible engines and ease of conversion for existing vessels.
• Bunkering and Safety Protocols: Presentation of methanol-specific handling guidelines, standards (ISO/CD 6583), and crew training requirements.
• India-Specific Outlook: Developments in Tamil Nadu, Odisha, and Madhya Pradesh aimed at reducing import dependency and fostering domestic green methanol infrastructure.
A highlight of the session was the special address by Mr. Alexander Döll, Chief Operating Officer of the Methanol Institute, who offered a global industry perspective and a historical analogy:
“The energy transition presents complex challenges for shipowners, requiring a flexible and pragmatic approach to fuel choices. This period of transformation is reminiscent of the industry’s shift from coal to marine liquid fuels. While the path to zero-carbon fuels will take time to settle, the collaborative efforts and strategic decisions being made today will define the future of sustainable shipping.”
In his vote of thanks address, Mr Shobhit Kapoor, Head of the IME(I) Mumbai Branch Technical Sub-Committee acknowledged the valuable contributions of the speakers, dignitaries, and participants for making the event impactful and solution-oriented.
Marex Media
