Cosulich Marine Energy has commenced construction of a new methanol-ready bunker tanker with the keel laying ceremony for Anna Cosulich at Taizhou Maple Leaf Shipyard in China on August 26.

The 7,999 deadweight tonne (DWT) IMO II bunker tanker will be equipped with MarineLINE cargo tank coating, which the company claims will provide chemical resistance and faster tank turnaround times. The vessel will also feature a nitrogen generator, Quick-Connect/Disconnect couplings (QCDC), two mass flow meters, and two segregations.

According to Cosulich Marine Energy, the vessel has been designed to minimise emissions and maximise operational uptime. The company describes the project as part of its fleet expansion strategy focused on sustainable bunkering operations.

The activities of Fratelli Cosulich Marine Energy cover bunker trading, shipowning, and ship management services, whilst also acting as a physical supplier in Singapore. The company has been expanding its fleet capabilities to accommodate the growing demand for alternative fuel handling and distribution.

The Anna Cosulich represents the company's investment in vessels designed to handle both conventional and alternative marine fuels, positioning the fleet for the evolving requirements of the shipping industry's decarbonisation efforts.

Construction details, including delivery timeline and total investment for the project, were not disclosed.