Yinson GreenTech: Bunker tankers at Singapore port ‘well suited’ for electrification
- Published
by Admin
The approximate 200 bunker tankers operating at the world’s largest bunkering port are a prime candidate for electrification, believes the Managing Director of marinEV, a business within Yinson GreenTech, the green technologies unit of Malaysia-listed Yinson Holdings Berhad.
Jan-Viggo Johansen was speaking to Manifold Times on the sidelines of Offshore Energy Week (OSEA) 2024 when he noted Singapore bunker tankers primarily operating over short distances within port waters and nearby shipping lanes, making them promising candidates for electric or hybrid-electric propulsion.
“These vessels spend a significant portion of their time at port, transferring marine fuel to docked or anchored ships, and are not required to undertake long-haul journeys,” he explained.
“This operational profile allows them to leverage charging infrastructure during docked periods or quick turnarounds.
“Electrification is particularly viable for vessels designed for short trips between terminals, shipyards, and anchored ships within Singapore’s waters, presenting a strong opportunity to adopt more sustainable propulsion systems.”
Electrification of bunker tankers at the republic presents both opportunities and challenges, added Johansen.
“One key challenge is the higher upfront capital cost compared to conventional fuel-powered vessels, driven primarily by the expense of battery systems and retrofitting existing fleets. However, the short operational distances typical of Singapore’s bunker tanker market could accelerate economic viability. Operators can gain returns on investment through reduced fuel consumption, lower maintenance costs, and potential access to regulatory incentives,” he said.
“On the opportunity front, electrification enhances the environmental profile of companies within the sector. As the global shipping industry increasingly prioritises sustainability, the ability to operate electric-powered vessels provides a competitive advantage. Bunker suppliers and operators can leverage this shift to meet the growing demand for green shipping solutions while aligning with international sustainability goals.”
Johansen, meanwhile, shared Yinson GreenTech’s marinEV division has been collaborating with the Maritime and Port Authority of Singapore (MPA) to advance high-power DC charging solutions, including the Megawatt Charging System (MCS), within Singapore’s ports.
MCS technology is designed to deliver large amounts of energy in significantly shorter durations, catering to the charging needs of larger vessels such as ferries and harbour tugs which rely on substantial battery capacity and require rapid turnarounds to ensure operational efficiency and flexibility.
“The strong support from MPA, enthusiasm from industry leaders in adopting greener practices in their operations and the substantial commercial and environmental benefits have positively charged the growth of electrified solutions in the marine space over the past few years,” stated Johansen.
“We are proud to be part of an innovative maritime community working towards cleaner port waters through vessel electrification and developing MCS charging infrastructure to support the growth of electric vessels in the industry. “
Manifold Times earlier reported Yinson GreenTech launching Singapore’s first fully electric hydrofoil vessel, the Hydroglyder, at OSEA 2024.
Related: Yinson GreenTech reveals Singapore’s first fully electric hydrofoil vessel
Related: Goal Zero Consortium launches Singapore’s first electric cargo vessel Hydromover
Photo credit: Yinson GreenTech
Published: 26 November 2024
