Port Lisas, Trinidad and Tobago – [February 6, 2025] – Methanex Trinidad Ltd., (Methanex Trinidad) in partnership with the National Energy Corporation of Trinidad and Tobago Limited (National Energy) and with support from The University of the West Indies (The UWI), St. Augustine, is pleased to announce the findings from its comprehensive feasibility study on the use of methanol as an alternative fuel for passenger vehicles, marking another significant milestone in the transition to cleaner energy for Trinidad and Tobago.
“The completion of this feasibility study represents a significant milestone for Methanex, and all stakeholders involved,” said Colin Bain, Managing Director and President of Methanex Trinidad. “Similar to the pioneering ship-to-ship bunkering demonstration conducted by Methanex in August 2024 at the Port of Point Lisas, this inaugural vehicle fuel blending project showcases the potential of public-private partnerships when they work together. Together, we have laid the groundwork to support a sustainable energy future that will benefit future generations. Methanex looks forward to advancing this initiative through ongoing efforts.”
The feasibility study, initiated with the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) between Methanex Trinidad and National Energy in 2021, aimed to explore and potentially define pathways for reducing emissions in the transportation sector. This initiative supports the Government of the Republic of Trinidad and Tobago’s (GORTT) commitment under the Paris Agreement to reduce greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions by 15% by 2030 from a 2013 baseline. Methanol, already produced locally, presents a promising alternative to traditional fuels.
“This landmark achievement underscores our commitment to pioneering sustainable energy solutions,” said Dr. Vernon Paltoo, President, National Energy. “The successful adoption of methanol as an alternative fuel not only reduces emissions but also demonstrates our capability to innovate and adapt. Our partnership with Methanex exemplifies how collaborative efforts can lead to substantial advancements for our community and our environment.”
The study was conducted in two phases. The first phase, completed in February 2023, demonstrated that a methanol-gasoline blend is technically feasible for local automotive transportation. The second phase, which included a passenger vehicle testing program and an endurance testing program, provided further technical details and confirmed the potential benefits of using a M15 fuel blend.
Methanex Trinidad and National Energy remain dedicated to advancing Trinidad and Tobago’s low carbon future, by working together to support sustainability and reduce emissions in the transportation sector.
About Methanol
Methanol is an essential ingredient for modern-day life and is used to produce everyday products including paints, carpets, fabrics, building materials, and a variety of health and pharmaceutical products. As governments and stakeholders around the world look to reduce their dependency on conventional fuels, improve air quality and reduce greenhouse gas emissions, methanol has emerged as an attractive, economically viable alternative fuel. To view a video about methanol, click here.
About Methanex Corporation
Methanex is a Vancouver-based, publicly traded company and is the world’s largest supplier of methanol to major international markets. Methanex shares are listed for trading on the Toronto Stock Exchange in Canada under the trading symbol “MX” and on the NASDAQ Global Select Market in the United States under the trading symbol “MEOH”. www.methanex.com
About National Energy Corporation of Trinidad and Tobago Limited
National Energy Corporation of Trinidad and Tobago Limited (National Energy) is committed to the facilitation and development of sustainable energy-based industries, both locally and regionally. The Company also owns and manages associated infrastructure to support these industries. For more information, please visit National Energy.
Methanex Media Inquiries
Jenna Boxill-Sooknanan
Manager, Commercial & Stakeholder Relations
jboxill@methanex.com
National Energy Corporation of Trinidad and Tobago Limited Media Inquiries
Reay Greaves
Manager, Corporate Communications
r.greaves@nationalenergy.tt