ETFuels to Export U.S. Green Methanol to Europe for Shipping Emissions Compliance

U.S.-based e-fuel developer ETFuels plans to export green hydrogen-based methanol (e-methanol) from the United States to European shipowners seeking to comply with stricter EU climate rules. The company recently signed a long-term, fixed-price offtake agreement with shipowner RFOcean, giving the buyer early access to renewable fuel supplies ahead of regulatory deadlines. The agreement is designed to help shipping companies meet requirements under FuelEU Maritime, which aims to reduce greenhouse gas emissions from vessels operating in the European Union. The regulation promotes the use of renewable fuels of non-biological origin (RFNBOs), including e-methanol produced using green hydrogen and captured carbon. ETFuels’ co-founder Felix Leworthy argues that Europe will face a “cost versus security” decision as it works to meet its decarbonization targets. While the EU wants to strengthen domestic clean energy production, importing e-fuels from the U.S. could be more cost-competitive due to lower renewable energy prices and strong federal incentives. By locking in long-term supply contracts now, ETFuels and its customers aim to secure price stability and regulatory compliance before demand increases and supply tightens later in the decade.