European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen has accepted to name Maersk’s first container ship able to sail on green methanol.

Von der Leyen will do so at a ceremony in Copenhagen on Sept. 14, Maersk informs in a press release.

”Just a few years ago, this iconic ship was merely a vision. Now, it is a reality, and we are honored that Ursula von der Leyen has agreed to be its godmother,” states CEO Vincent Clerc.

The ship will pass by Copenhagen on its maiden voyage before heading for the Baltic Sea where it will be deployed on a regular operational route.

Maersk is banking heavily on green methanol as the marine fuel that is supposed to replace regular fuel oil and help the carrier achieve its zero emission target in 2040.

The shipping major has commissioned a total of 19 methanol-powered ships, comprising 18 ocean-going ships and one feeder vessel. The latter designates ships transporting boxes between ports that major vessels do not swing by.

The naming ceremony in September regards the feeder vessel, which is 172 meters long and capable of carrying 2,000 containers on board.

The large ocean-going vessels are set for delivery from 2024 and onwards.

English edit: Kristoffer Grønbæk