Panama Canal Authority Introduces NetZero Slot to Promote Low-Carbon Shipping
The Panama Canal Authority (PCA) has announced the introduction of the "NetZero Slot," a new initiative aimed at promoting low-carbon navigation and achieving net-zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2050. This advisory outlines the details of the initiative.
Overview
The PCA will implement the NetZero Slot to support low-carbon navigation and encourage customers' decarbonization efforts. Starting from October 5, 2025, one NetZero Slot will be available weekly for NeoPanamax vessels.
Benefits of the NetZero Slot
- Choice of Transit Date: Vessels can select their transit date within the offered week.
- Guaranteed 24-Hour Transit: Transit time is guaranteed to be within 24 hours.
- Just-In-Time (JIT) Service: Efficient navigation support is provided.
Participation Requirements
To participate, vessels must meet specific low-carbon criteria, which will evolve in line with the industry's progress towards decarbonization by 2050.
Phase 1: Recognizing Investments in Greener Vessels (October 2025)
Vessels must be dual fuel-ready and capable of operating with at least one fuel with a Well-to-Wake (WtW) carbon intensity of 75 gCO2(e)/MJ or lower.
Carbon Intensity Matrix
The following table shows the carbon intensity of common marine fuels, expressed in grams of CO2(e) per megajoule of energy produced:
| Fuel Type | Carbon Intensity (gCO2(e)/MJ) |
| Marine Diesel Oil (MDO) | ~89 |
| Methanol (Fossil) | ~88 |
| Heavy Fuel Oil (HFO) | ~87 |
| Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG) | ~74 |
| Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG) | ~63 |
| Biofuel B20 | ~60-65 (Varies) |
| Biofuel B50 | ~45-50 (Varies) |
| Biofuel B70 | ~30-40 (Varies) |
| Ammonia (Fossil) | ~30 |
| Biofuel B100 | ~10-20 (Varies) |
| Ammonia (Green) | ~10 (Varies) |
| Methanol (Green) | ~10 (Varies) |
Phase 2: Encouraging Energy Efficiency Investments (2026)
In addition to Phase 1 requirements, vessels must submit a Technology Screening Report evaluating energy efficiency technologies applicable to the vessel. Specifications, a list of approved third-party verifiers, and the specific start date for Phase 2 will be provided in advance through an advisory.
Selection Process
The NetZero Slot will be allocated through a competition based on the following characteristics:
- Cargo Condition: Laden vessels will be given priority.
- Capacity: Vessels with a larger Panama Canal Universal Measurement System (PCUMS) capacity will have priority.
A Step Towards a Sustainable Future
The NetZero Slot is part of the PCA's commitment to reward and incentivize investments in energy efficiency and low-carbon fuels. As the shipping industry progresses towards net-zero emissions, the PCA will continuously update the eligibility criteria to recognize and support these efforts.
For the original advisory, please refer to the Advisory to Shipping.
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