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SMW 2024: Seatrium, A*STAR to explore new energies and AI for offshore and marine uses

Both organisations will focus on establishing a sustainable ammonia supply chain and addressing bunkering, transportation, and storage challenges, amongst others.

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SMW 2024: Seatrium, A*STAR to explore new energies and AI for offshore and marine uses

Singapore-headquartered marine engineering firm Seatrium and Singapore’s Agency for Science, Technology and Research (A*STAR) on Tuesday (16 April) inked a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to explore research opportunities in new energies and artificial intelligence (AI) to develop innovative products and engineering solutions for the Offshore and Marine (O&M) Sector. 

The MoU signing took place during the Singapore Maritime Week and was witnessed by the event’s Guest of Honour, Dr Amy Khor, Senior Minister of State, Ministry of Transport and Ministry of Sustainability and the Environment.

The collaboration combines Seatrium’s insights into trends and opportunities within the O&M sector with the research capabilities of A*STAR and its National Platforms such as the Technology Centre for Offshore and Marine, Singapore (TCOMS). The parties aim to boost the O&M sector’s pivot to new energies efficiently and reliably, and support the global transition to a low-carbon economy. Through machine learning, manufacturing process technologies and digital solutions, the collaboration will also streamline product development and manufacturing processes, and promote innovation and sustainability in Seatrium’s operations.

The focus areas of the MoU include the co-development of:

New Energies

This includes the exploration of new energies such as hydrogen and ammonia solutions, specifically tailored for offshore and marine applications. A*STAR and Seatrium were part of Singapore’s first ammonia fuel trial on the Fortescue Green Pioneer. 

A*STAR contributed to the development of an ammonia plume model for safety and environmental impact assessment, while Seatrium was responsible for the installation of the vessel’s fuel system and safety features.

Both organisations will now focus on establishing a sustainable ammonia supply chain and addressing bunkering, transportation, and storage challenges. Coupled with carbon capture technologies, Seatrium’s suite of product solutions aims to provide sustainable energy solutions for the offshore and marine sector.

Artificial Intelligence (AI)

The partnership leverages AI to explore innovative solutions in engineering processes, operational efficiency, and decision-making across project lifecycles. 

This includes the planned development of Large Language Models (LLMs) to improve vessel design and validation turnaround by automating and streamlining parts of the process. AI will be used to automate work site inspection and surveillance for improved operational efficiency.

Since 2008, Seatrium’s predecessor entities and A*STAR have worked on research projects such as green shipping, digital design, automation, Internet of Things (IoT) and advanced manufacturing. 

The outcomes have culminated in the development of new capabilities, including co-designing the world’s first made-in-Singapore Low Ultraviolet (LUV) Ballast Water Treatment System. 

This eco-friendly system employs energy-efficient ultra-violet rays and proprietary ultra-low frequency bio-fouling control for chemical-free treatment of ballast water.

Mr Chris Ong, CEO of Seatrium, said: “The collaborative efforts between Seatrium and A*STAR are geared towards accelerating the energy transition and maritime decarbonisation.”

“By combining our knowledge and pushing boundaries, we aim to develop advanced energy solutions that will help the industry adopt renewable sources more quickly.”

“Through innovation, research, and sustainable practices, we are focused on minimising carbon emissions, improving operational efficiency, and promoting cleaner energy.”

“We are committed to making a positive impact and playing a vital role in Singapore’s sustainable O&M sector with the support of our partners, stakeholders, and customers.”

Mr Frederick Chew, CEO of A*STAR, said: “Building on our previous successful collaboration programmes in green shipping, digital design and advanced manufacturing, this latest collaboration in new energies and AI furthers Seatrium and A*STAR’s shared vision of developing more smart and sustainable solutions for the O&M sector.”

“I look forward to programme outcomes that will contribute substantively to Seatrium’s and Singapore’s economic and sustainability goals.”

Related: Fortescue successfully conducts world’s first ammonia bunker fuel trial in Singapore
Related: SMW 2024: Singapore is preparing port for multi-fuel future, says Transport Minister
Related: SMW 2024: MPA partners with S&P Global and Bunkerchain in digital ship identity
Related: SMW2024: 18th Singapore Maritime Week opens with ‘Actions meet Ambition’ theme
Related: SMW 2024: MPA to set up facility for maritime workforce to train in handling new bunker fuels
Related: SMW 2024: Singapore-Rotterdam Green and Digital Shipping Corridor partners to implement first-mover pilot projects

 

Photo credit: Seatrium and A*STAR
Published: 17 April 2024

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Alternative Fuels

Singapore-Brazil green shipping corridor to support alternative bunker fuel supply chains

Both inked a MOU to establish the Singapore-Brazil GDSC, bringing together their complementary strengths to support the development of alternative marine fuel supply chains.

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Swapnil Bapat on Unsplash

Singapore and Brazil have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) to establish the Singapore-Brazil Green and Digital Shipping Corridor (GDSC), according to the Maritime and Port Authority of Singapore (MPA) on Friday (28 August). 

The MOU was signed by Singapore’s Minister for Transport, Mr Jeffrey Siow, and Brazil’s Minister of Ports and Airports, Mr Tomé Franca.

MPA said the partnership will strengthen cooperation between Singapore and Brazil on maritime decarbonisation and digitalisation, and support more sustainable and efficient international shipping.

Brazil has significant renewable energy resources and production capabilities that could support the production of zero- and near-zero greenhouse gas emission marine fuels, while Singapore is the world’s largest bunkering port and a leading global hub port with a vibrant innovation ecosystem. 

“The GDSC will bring together these complementary strengths to support the development of alternative marine fuel supply chains,” MPA added. 

Under the MOU, Singapore and Brazil will also explore digital information exchanges to improve maritime and port operations. The two countries will work with industry to advance the research, development and adoption of emerging maritime technologies and solutions.

 

Photo credit: Swapnil Bapat on Unsplash
Published: 31 August, 2026

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Decarbonisation

CSA and MFA partner to support shipowners, bunker suppliers on emissions compliance

Clean Shipping Alliance and the Marine Fuels Alliance signed a MoU to also advance transition to alternative bunker fuels and emissions reduction technologies.

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CSA and MFA partner to support shipowners, bunker suppliers on emissions compliance

The Clean Shipping Alliance (CSA) and the Marine Fuels Alliance (MFA) on Wednesday (19 August) said they have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to support the shipping industry and bunker suppliers in meeting regulatory requirements on emissions, and to advance the transition to alternative fuels and emissions reduction technologies.

The agreement will see CSA’s expertise in exhaust gas cleaning systems and marine environmental technology brought together with MFA’s network and knowledge across the marine fuels supply chain. 

Both organisations share an interest in supporting the maritime industry’s transition toward a sustainable, compliant and lower-emission future, and the agreement sets out a structure for the two bodies to share technical insight and coordinate on regulatory pathways.

Through the collaboration, the two associations intend to encourage dialogue between technology providers, fuel suppliers and ship operators, share technical insights and support the development of practical regulatory pathways.

Under this framework, the two associations will:

  • Share technical data and research: on MARPOL compliance, alternative fuels and emissions reduction technologies.
  • Coordinate joint advocacy: including at the International Maritime Organization (IMO) level and alongside sessions of the IMO’s Marine Environment Protection Committee (MEPC).
  • Support industry events: on fleet modernisation, retrofitting and fuel quality standards.
  • Develop practical operational guidance: linking technology providers, fuel suppliers and ship operators.

Andreas Chrysostomou, Executive Director of the Clean Shipping Alliance, said: “Shipping’s compliance and availability challenges won’t be solved by one technology or one fuel. It needs ongoing communication between different elements of the value chain, and that’s why CSA and MFA have signed this MoU. Technologies, fuels and regulation cannot be considered in isolation, and by working together we can bring together complementary expertise, improve the exchange of technical knowledge and contribute to solutions that are both environmentally effective and operationally realistic.”

Anthony Mollet, Executive Officer of the Marine Fuels Alliance, said: “The CSA brings a wealth of technical knowledge and first-hand industry experience, particularly in relation to emissions, environmental regulation and the technologies being adopted by shipowners and operators. This partnership will give our members an important additional source of expertise and insight, helping them better understand the challenges facing the industry and make informed decisions as the transition towards cleaner shipping continues.

“For companies across the contractual chain in bunkers, it is increasingly important to understand the decisions being made by shipowners and operators around fuel choice, emissions technologies and the future fuels they intend to use. 

“The selection of a particular fuel grade or technology can have significant implications throughout the bunker supply chain, from contractual arrangements and fuel specifications to supply and operational considerations. This is a key area of focus for the MFA, and we are committed to providing our members with clear, practical and relevant resources to help them navigate these developments.”

The non-binding MoU will initially remain in effect for two years, with both associations designating points of contact to coordinate joint initiatives and regularly review the collaboration.

 

Photo credit: Clean Shipping Alliance and Marine Fuels Alliance
Published: 20 August, 2026

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Decarbonisation

Yang Ming and PSA to develop integrated sea-land decarbonisation solutions

Both will explore solutions spanning emissions measurement and verification, a digital Book-and-Claim framework, and a joint maritime-land inset token package.

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Yang Ming and PSA to develop integrated sea-land decarbonisation solutions

PSA International (PSA) on Monday (20 July) said it has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Yang Ming Marine Transport Corporation (Yang Ming) to jointly accelerate the adoption of low-carbon solutions across the maritime value chain.

Beyond emissions measurement and verification, the collaboration will focus on a digital Book-and-Claim framework and a joint maritime-land based inset token package. 

“This synergy provides cargo stakeholders with a transparent and accountable sea-land pathway to achieve their decarbonisation targets,” PSA said on its website. 

Yang Ming launched the green transport service, EcoSea+. This initiative integrates Yang Ming’s low-carbon navigation capabilities to empower customers with a flexible and transparent strategy to effectively reduce their Scope 3 transportation emissions. By joining forces with PSA, Yang Ming is able to expand the impact of these sustainability actions beyond the ocean.

Building on its position as a global port operator, PSA advances its Node to Network strategy through integrated port and supply chain capabilities that enable a green network of terminal and landside operations to reduce end-to-end supply chain emissions.

The agreement was officially signed by Mr Ivan Chiang, Chief Logistics Officer & Senior Vice President of Yang Ming, and Mr Eddy Ng, Group Head of Operations, Technology and Sustainability of PSA International. 

Mr Ong Kim Pong, PSA International Group CEO, said, “As responsible stewards of tomorrow, PSA is committed to delivering sustainable impact across the global port and supply chain ecosystem. 

“Tackling the challenges arising from climate change will require the collective efforts of all players in the maritime supply chain sector. We are excited to partner Yang Ming on the decarbonisation of global supply chains and support the transition towards a more sustainable global economy.”

 

Photo credit: PSA International
Published: 23 July, 2026

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