Singapore: Vopak and A*STAR ink MoU to explore low carbon energy solutions

Vopak Terminals Singapore (Vopak) and the Agency for Science, Technology and Research (A*STAR) on Friday (27 October) said they signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to explore research opportunities in low carbon energy solutions, including addressing current challenges associated with hydrogen and ammonia, such as scalability, safety, storage and transportation. 

As a clean fuel that can be used to generate electricity, the duo said the low-carbon hydrogen is an increasingly promising solution which can spur Singapore’s decarbonisation efforts as Singapore transitions towards net zero by 2050. 

They added ammonia, a hydrogen carrier, has also emerged as a possible fuel for power generation, as well as a low-carbon bunker fuel. 

The partnership between Vopak and A*STAR will focus on the development of low-carbon energy technologies by combining Vopak’s expertise and assets in importing, storing and handling ammonia on large scales, with A*STAR’s research capabilities in energy transition and low carbon energy. The partnership will also enable researchers to access Singapore’s only ammonia import, storage and handling infrastructure to accelerate R&D and conduct technology pilots.

Rob Boudestijn, President, Vopak Terminals Singapore, said: “Hydrogen and ammonia can play an important role in Singapore’s transition to a low-carbon economy. As Singapore’s leading independent terminal infrastructure provider, we have extensive knowledge and experience in the safe handling of ammonia.”

“We recognize the unique role that Vopak can play to support Singapore’s net zero ambitions. We look forward to collaborate with A*STAR to accelerate the safe scale up & commercialisation of these low-carbon energy solutions.”

Prof Yeo Yee Chia, Assistant Chief Executive, Innovation & Enterprise, A*STAR, said: “A*STAR looks forward to our partnership with Vopak to support Singapore’s National Hydrogen Strategy, where hydrogen could supply up to half of our power needs by 2050. By advancing technologies for low- or zero-carbon fuels such as hydrogen and ammonia and harnessing them for diverse industry applications, we can help pave the way to a more sustainable future enabled by innovative clean energy sources.”

Photo credit: Vopak
Published: 1 November, 2023