Ship Orders for Alternative Fuels Decline Nearly 50% in 2025, Led by LNG
METHANOLNATURAL GASSYNTHETIC FUELS
In 2025, orders for alternative-fuel vessels decreased by 47% to 275, reflecting a broader drop in newbuild orders from 4,405 in 2024 to 2,403. Container ship orders rose to 547, accounting for 49% of gross tonnage.
LNG vessels dominated with 188 orders, making up 31% of total tonnage. Methanol orders fell to 61. Orders for LPG and ethane tankers dropped by 73%.
Despite regulatory uncertainty, investment in fuel infrastructure continued, with 22 LNG bunker vessels ordered. Wind-assisted propulsion systems were installed on 24 ships.
Jan 15, 2026, 6:14 AM
