State agencies to position Trinidad and Tobago as low-carbon bunkering hub

Three state agencies under the oversight of the Ministry of Energy and Energy Industries (MEEI) on Wednesday (18 September) signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to collaborate on positioning Trinidad and Tobago as the Caribbean’s first low-carbon marine bunkering hub.

The three agencies involved are National Energy Corporation of Trinidad & Tobago Limited (National Energy), Trinidad & Tobago National Petroleum Marketing Company Limited (NP), and Paria Fuel Trading Company Limited (Paria).

The MoU commits the three agencies to immediately conduct a feasibility study that will evaluate the potential to supply low-carbon marine fuels, such as methanol, to ships operating on trade routes throughout the Caribbean.

That study is expected to conclude by April 2025, after which an implementation plan will be developed, with the goal of making the hub operational by 2026.

“This is not uncharted territory for National Energy,” said Dr. Joseph Khan, Chairman of National Energy. “In 2023, we introduced Trinidad & Tobago’s first low-emission tug, marking a major step in reducing emissions from our maritime operations. This next move strengthens our position as a regional leader and will attract cleaner vessels to our ports.”

NP said it is confident that the recent restoration of the Sea Lots Channel and Turning Basin has prepared its infrastructure to accommodate larger vessels, including those powered by alternative fuels. 

“We’re fully prepared for this transition,” said NP Chairman, Sahid Hosein. “Our facilities are equipped to meet the growing demand from international ships seeking cleaner fuel alternatives.”

Paria Chairman, Newman George emphasised that “Paria’s infrastructure and market intelligence enable us to run reliable and efficient terminals for both petroleum products and cleaner fuels. This aligns with the global industry’s shift towards low-carbon solutions.”

The agencies added Trinidad and Tobago’s creation of a low-carbon bunkering hub prepares the country for future environmental regulations, making it an attractive destination for vessels operating under stricter standards. 

Photo credit: National Energy Corporation of Trinidad and Tobago
Published: 20 September, 2024