Objective Given the challenges of reverse distribution and inefficient high-carbon logistics for green methanol in China, alongside the risk of idle and stranded assets in existing oil pipelines amid peak oil consumption, it is crucial to leverage oil pipeline infrastructure to develop an efficient, low-carbon methanol transportation system.

Methods Based on systematic theory, a construction path for a methanol pipeline transportation system was proposed from the perspectives of multi-energy integration and revitalization of stock assets. At the physical facility level, technical challenges were analyzed, including methanol-induced stress corrosion cracking, seal swelling, mixing control during batch transportation, and gas resistance oscillation in high-drop pipeline segments. An adaptive renovation path was put forward based on material compatibility evaluation and precise tracking of mixed oil interfaces. At the logistics network level, a three-dimensional logistics architecture of “long-distance trunk lines + regional microgrids + hub peak shaving” was established to address the flow mismatch between continuous pipeline transportation and terminal pulsed consumption, and to smooth “last-mile” delivery. For safety assurance, a risk prevention and control system for methanol pipeline transportation was proposed, incorporating a phase separation monitoring mechanism, leakage early-warning lines, and full-life-cycle integrity management.

Results The results indicated that: (1) The stock asset revitalization strategy, combined with a “marginal cost + green premium” pricing model and flexible pipeline capacity trading, effectively unlocked idle pipeline capacity and enabled seamless integration of “production, supply, storage, and injection” infrastructure. (2) A full-life-cycle digital carbon passport traceability system was established to address international green trade barriers. (3) A market-oriented operation mechanism, deeply coupling carbon, energy, price, and benefit, facilitated the redistribution of regional economic benefits through spatial energy transfer.

Conclusion The use of stock assets for methanol transportation represents a Pareto improvement approach that addresses logistics challenges and revitalizes idle assets. This approach transforms traditional oil pipeline networks into integrated energy systems coupling hydrogen, carbon, and methanol, bridges the theoretical gap in reconstructing long-distance methanol pipeline networks in China, strengthens the “liquid defense line” for national energy security, and offers a Chinese model for the green transformation of global fossil energy infrastructure.