Panama Canal Reserves Weekly Transit Slot for Low-Carbon Ships

The Panama Canal Authority (ACP) has announced the launch of a dedicated low-carbon transit slot, a move aimed at supporting global efforts toward decarbonization in the maritime industry. Beginning October 5, 2025, a weekly transit slot will be reserved exclusively for neopanamax vessels that meet specific low-carbon emission criteria.

Unlike previous initiatives, this slot will not be assigned through an auction but rather via a competition held 30 days prior to the transit date. Vessels equipped with dual-fuel engines and utilizing fuel with a carbon intensity below 75 gCO2(e)/MJ from extraction to combustion will be eligible for the first phase of the program.

The second phase, set for 2026, will introduce additional requirements, including a technology screening report to assess the vessel’s energy efficiency capabilities. According to ACP, laden vessels and those with a larger Panama Canal Universal Measurement System (PCUMS) capacity will be prioritized. The winning vessel will gain key benefits such as a flexible transit date, a guaranteed 24-hour transit time, and just-in-time service.

Commenting on the development, Ilya Espino de Marotta, ACP’s Deputy Administrator and Sustainability Officer stated that by motivating investment in vessels capable of using low-carbon fuels and energy-efficient technologies, they are recognizing and rewarding clients who are leading the transition toward a more sustainable future.

This initiative is part of the Panama Canal’s broader sustainability strategy, which aligns with global decarbonization goals while awaiting the necessary regional infrastructure to support green fuel adoption in the shipping sector.