DNV has introduced the first public tender portal for buying e-methanol in the European Union and the United Kingdom. This platform connects industrial buyers with a European producer to help boost the supply of this low-carbon fuel for maritime transport and heavy industry.

This initiative is a response to the increasing demand for clean energy sources that can help reduce carbon emissions in hard-to-decarbonize sectors. E-methanol is made from renewable hydrogen and captured biogenic carbon, which helps meet various European regulations like RED III, Fit for 55, EU ETS, ReFuelEU Aviation, and FuelEU Maritime, along with the decarbonization goals set by the International Maritime Organization.

Many EU countries, including Germany, Spain, France, and Belgium, are either implementing or suggesting blending requirements for renewable fuels that are not derived from biological sources. Some of these mandates even go beyond EU targets, doubling or quadrupling the minimum requirements. Meanwhile, limitations on biofuel feedstock and stricter regulations are driving up prices, which underscores the need for alternative renewable fuels. Nevertheless, finding a dependable and verifiable supply still poses challenges.

Santiago Blanco, Vice-President and Regional Director at DNV, mentioned that market mechanisms for expanding e-methanol production are still developing, even though the technology is available. “With this tender, we are using our impartial expertise to simplify the procurement process for both producers and buyers,” Blanco stated. “Our goal is to convert ambition into actionable supply agreements and speed up the transition to alternative fuels in Europe.”

The tender process has two stages: an initial non-binding qualification phase to find serious potential buyers, followed by direct negotiations with the selected candidates.

The product will fully comply with RED III and the Delegated Acts related to RFNBO certification, ensuring certification is established from the beginning of the project. Deliveries are expected to start in the second half of 2028, offering flexible delivery options for buyers across the EU and UK.

This tender is open to industrial users, maritime operators, traders, and other organizations that are dedicated to achieving net-zero goals and sustainable sourcing practices.