.Panama Canal Launches Green Transit Slot for Neopanamax
The Panama Canal Authority (ACP) has announced a new initiative aimed at promoting sustainable shipping: a dedicated low-carbon transit slot that will reward vessels meeting specific environmental standards.
Beginning October 5, a weekly slot will be reserved exclusively for neopanamax ships that comply with defined low-emission criteria. Unlike traditional transit slots, this new NetZero Slot will not be allocated via auction. Instead, eligible vessels will compete for it through a selection process held 30 days prior to the transit week.
In the initial phase, the slot will be open to ships with dual-fuel engines using fuels that produce less than 75 grams of CO₂ equivalent per megajoule (gCO₂(e)/MJ) across the full lifecycle—from extraction to combustion.
A second phase is scheduled for 2026, with further criteria to be introduced. In addition to meeting the first phase’s emissions standards, vessels will be required to submit a technology screening report outlining the energy efficiency measures implemented on board.
According to the ACP, priority in the competition will be given to laden ships and those with higher Panama Canal Universal Measurement System (PCUMS) capacities.
The winning vessel will gain several advantages, including the ability to select its transit date within the assigned week, guaranteed passage through the canal within 24 hours, and access to just-in-time services.
“By motivating investment in vessels capable of using low-carbon fuels and energy-efficient technologies, we are recognizing and rewarding our clients who are leading the transition toward a more sustainable future, while we await the development of regional infrastructure and logistics that will allow us to make steady progress toward global decarbonization goals,” stated Ilya Espino de Marotta, the Panama Canal’s deputy administrator and sustainability officer.
This move is part of the ACP’s broader strategy to align with international decarbonization goals and encourage greener practices within the global shipping industry.