Malaysia: Banle Energy completes Port Klang’s first B24 biofuel bunkering ops

Banle Energy International Limited, a Hong Kong subsidiary of marine fuel logistic company Banle Group, on Monday (15 July) announced the successful completion of two B24 biofuel bunkering services for Yang Ming Marine Transport Corporation (Yang Ming).

These were achieved in partnership with Green Marine Supply SDN. BHD. (Green Marine Supply) and Armada Meridian SDN. BHD. (Armada Meridian) at Port Klang in Malaysia, marking it the port’s first biofuel bunkering supply.

With more shipping regulations coming up, Banle Energy said it has proactively seized the opportunity by obtaining ISCC EU certification, which is a certification intended for biofuels and energy in the EU, recognised by the European Commission (EC) for the Renewable Energy Directive (RED II), and ISCC Plus certification, which is a certification intended for food, feed, bio-based products, energy and biofuels outside Europe and/or outside scope of the RED II, as early as 2023.

As the shipping industry accelerates its efforts to meet decarbonisation goals, the firm said there is a corresponding upward trend in both the utilisation of green marine fuel and their market potential. 

According to market research company Exactitude Consultancy, the global green marine fuel market is anticipated to grow from USD 11.57 billion in 2023 to USD 201.35 billion by 2030, at a CAGR of 50.4% during the forecast period. 

Recognising this opportunity, the Group said it has strengthened its commitment to explore and expand the portfolio of alternative fuel options available to customers.

Port Klang is the largest port in Malaysia and among the top 20 busiest ports globally, positioned in the top-producing state for the nation’s GDP, highlighting its significant role in Malaysia’s economy.

The B24 biofuel is a blend of Used Cooking Oil Methyl Ester (UCOME) and traditional marine fuel. Compared to traditional marine fuel, the B24 biofuel blend is projected to reduce approximately 20% of Greenhouse Gas (GHG) emissions. 

This partnership between the local refinery and Banle Energy not only ensures a stable supply of biofuel in the region, but also provides strong support for BANL’s business expansion in the Asia-Pacific region.

Teck Lim Chia, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, said: “We are honoured to facilitate Port Klang’s first inaugural B24 biofuel bunkering services. This milestone not only marks a significant step in the Group’s sustainable development journey but also demonstrates our contribution to the global shipping industry’s low-carbon transition.”

“Banle Energy will continue to expand its business scope and stay committed to meeting the diverse needs of shipowner customers, further solidifying our position as a leading ship fuel supplier in the Asia-Pacific region.”

Photo credit: Banle Energy International Limited
Published: 17 July 2024