The Panama Canal Authority (ACP) has introduced a new NetZero Slot, aimed at promoting the decarbonisation of maritime trade and progressing its institutional commitment to achieving net-zero emissions by 2050.
The ACP confirmed that the first competition for the new slot will be held on 3 October 2025, covering transits between 2 and 8 November 2025. From that point onwards, one reserved weekly transit will be designated exclusively for vessels qualifying under low-emission requirements.
Vessels awarded a NetZero Slot will gain several advantages, including the ability to choose their preferred transit date within the allotted week, a guaranteed 24-hour transit, inclusion in the Just-in-Time service, and flexibility to exchange or substitute vessels of similar specifications.
To qualify during this initial stage, participating vessels must be dual-fuel and capable of operating on at least one energy source with a carbon intensity factor of 75 gCO₂e/MJ or lower. Recognised fuels include green methanol, green ammonia, bio-LNG, and bio-LPG.
The ACP clarified that vessels will not be required to use these fuels immediately, but the availability of relevant infrastructure and operational capacity will be acknowledged once supply chains are fully developed.
Unlike its traditional auction process, the NetZero Slot will operate under a weekly competitive prioritisation system. The ACP stated that preference will be determined according to:
- Cargo condition, favouring loaded vessels.
- PCUMS tonnage capacity, with higher-capacity ships taking precedence.
- Economic contribution, combining payments of tolls, maritime services, and past transit fees as a final tiebreaker.
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The ACP said the introduction of this new slot underscores its commitment to serving as a driving force in the global energy transition and offers a concrete incentive for the adoption of alternative fuels across the shipping sector.
“The NetZero Slot is an unequivocal signal of our commitment to sustainability and the competitiveness of global trade. Through this initiative, we aim to support our customers in the transition toward a low-emissions future,” said Ilya Espino de Marotta, Deputy Administrator and Chief Sustainability Officer.
