In a groundbreaking development for sustainable transportation in the Nordics, Liquid Wind, Umeå Energi, and Wasaline have signed a Letter of Intent that marks the beginning of a transformative collaboration. This partnership aims to supply eMethanol to the innovative Aurora Botnia ferry, operating between Vaasa, Finland, and Umeå, Sweden. The initiative is a significant step towards decarbonising one of the world’s northernmost shipping routes, demonstrating a strong commitment to environmental sustainability and innovation in green technology.

eMethanol, also known as green methanol or electro-methanol, is created through a process where carbon dioxide is combined with hydrogen produced from renewable electricity and water. This clean fuel represents a major leap forward in efforts to reduce the carbon footprint associated with maritime transport. Unlike conventional methanol, which is typically derived from natural gas or coal, eMethanol’s production process captures CO2, thereby contributing to a significant reduction in greenhouse gas emissions when compared to fossil fuels.

The Aurora Botnia ferry, a beacon of green technology in maritime transport, is well-suited for this initiative. Launched by Wasaline, Aurora Botnia is equipped with hybrid technology, boasting dual-fuel engines alongside battery operations. The integration of eMethanol into its fuel system asserts Wasaline’s pioneering role in the industry’s transition to sustainable energy sources.

Liquid Wind’s FlagshipTHREE project in Umeå is set to be the eMethanol production hub, with an anticipated annual output of 100,000 tons upon its expected operational date in 2027. This facility positions Northern Sweden as a vital region for the production and supply of renewable fuels, signifying a collaborative effort toward environmental stewardship and technological innovation.

Claes Fredriksson, CEO and Founder of Liquid Wind, expressed pride in the collaboration, highlighting the significant potential and growing demand for eFuels in the Nordic region and beyond. Jan Ridfeldt, CEO of Umeå Energi, and Peter Ståhlberg, Managing Director of Wasaline, also voiced their enthusiasm for the partnership, underlining the project’s importance as a stride towards a sustainable future and the creation of a green corridor between Finland and Sweden.

This collaboration between Liquid Wind, Umeå Energi, and Wasaline not only signals a shift towards the decarbonisation of maritime transport but also sets a precedent for cross-border partnerships in the pursuit of sustainable energy solutions. By leveraging local production and reducing transport distances for the fuel supply, the initiative offers a model for the reduction of carbon emissions in the shipping industry, aligning with global efforts to combat climate change.

As the project moves forward, it exemplifies the power of cooperation and innovation in addressing environmental challenges. The commitment shown by all parties involved provides a hopeful glimpse into the future of sustainable transportation, both in the Nordics and across the globe.