From Concept to Market: Internationalization of Sustainable Methanol Piping Solutions for the Maritime Industry

Abstract

The maritime industry is facing a significant transformation as regulatory pressure, technological advancement, and sustainability goals are pushing to accelerate the shift toward low-emission alternative fuels. Methanol, which has gained a lot of traction due to its compatibility with existing vessel infrastructures, manageability in a liquid state and the fact that it can provide substantial greenhouse gas reductions when produced through sustainable processes. In this highly regulatory environment, explaining how the firms that provide methanol-based solutions internationalize and come up with complex and safety-related solutions is of increasing importance. To provide a more detailed insight into this changing landscape, the study investigates the internationalization paths, technical conceptualization, and sustainability implications involving high-pressure methanol piping systems. The paper uses a qualitative approach and a single case study, utilizing a set of semi-structured interviews with experts in the maritime industry. Through an analytical review, the study outlines the key considerations that will guide the internationalization efforts of these organizations, including regulatory requirements, the role of global networks, as well as the critical role of collaborative engineering in designing the compliant methanol solutions. The findings show that internationalization in the maritime sector is inherently network-based, whereby companies rely on sustainable relationships to overcome market entry limitations and to achieve legitimacy. The study also indicates that conceptualization of methanol piping systems is informed by stringent safety regulations, regulatory interpretations, and inter-organizational alignment. Despite several barriers such as limited supply of green methanol and the underdeveloped global infrastructure remain a major challenge, methanol piping systems can already play a significant role in sustainable shipping and in achieving the goal of decarbonization offered by the International Maritime Organization. Promoting and expanding existing global business models in the unique context of maritime decarbonization, this dissertation provides new empirical data that is relevant in the spheres of alternative fuels, network-based growth, and innovation in safety-related technologies. In addition, it also gives practical recommendations to policymakers and players in the industry who are keen on accelerating the adoption of methanol-based solutions. The paper concludes with a series of recommendations that future research should follow to enhance the academic understanding of the maritime energy transition and the technologies that support them.