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

Alvin Tan, Minister of State for the Ministry of Culture, Community and Youth & Ministry of Trade and Industry, on Tuesday (19 November) announced a new SGD100 million support package for marine and offshore engineering companies.

The package is aimed at fostering partnership and adopting solutions in growth areas including offshore wind, floating storage, and digitalisation over the next five years.

With the accelerating pace of the energy transition, Tan emphasised Singapore’s commitment to becoming a greener economy, with a goal of achieving net-zero emissions by 2050, as outlined in the nation's Green Plan. 

Tan graced OSEA 2024 in Singapore where the three-day tradeshow welcomed more than 500 exhibitors and 15,000+ attendees from 100 countries, providing a comprehensive look at solutions and strategies driving the energy transition in the marine and offshore industries.

As part of the OSEA Gives Back initiative, complimentary conference access was extended to members of the broader community. This initiative is designed to promote inclusivity by providing opportunities for diverse participants to engage with industry leaders, exchange knowledge, and collaborate on innovative solutions. 

The conference emphasised the urgent need to accelerate the energy transition and foster global collaboration. Speakers highlighted the competitive advantage of adopting solutions now to meet regulatory targets, while stressing the need for faster adoption of transformative technologies, such as carbon capture and storage (CCS), alternative fuels and digital innovations for automation and efficiency.

Prof. Chan Eng Soon, Chairman for the OSEA Advisory Committee and Chief Executive Officer at Technology Centre for Offshore and Marine Singapore (TCOMS) commented on OSEA being at the forefront of innovation and driving sustainability. He said: “There is work still to be done; we must embrace the energy transition, collaborate, and learn from each other, because we all play a role in the low-carbon economy.”

Additionally, there were exclusive content sessions ranging from Executive Networking sessions, the OSEA Academy and Country Hotspots, specially designed to provide marketing information, innovation and trends. This included highlighting specific offshore energy market and investments potentials, as well as driving connections among decision makers and experts.

The industry’s need to decarbonise and change has brought unprecedented challenges and opportunities to the offshore energy market. 

This echoed across the exhibition hall, with leading companies such as Seatrium discussing and highlighting initiatives on new fuels, CCS, and cleaner offshore production for marine decarbonisation, as well as initiatives showcased by the group pavilions. 

Yinson GreenTech unveiled its new electric crew transfer vessel Hydroglyder, which is Singapore’s first fully electric hydrofoil vessel and marks a significant move towards sustainable marine innovation. 

Similarly, TechX@OSEA showcased transformative technologies, including startups shaping the future of offshore energy and driving innovation, collaboration, and the adoption of solutions that enhance business capabilities and sustainability. 

Leedon Nox reinforced its core capabilities as an industrial gas supplier with engineering and consultancy expertise ensuring reliability for customers in offshore operations, while Aramco displayed initiatives that support the future of energy, powering economies that fuel progress worldwide. 

Strategic Marine, Mirai Ships Inc., and Ragnar Energy Solutions signed a Memorandum of Understanding for the construction of Crew Transfer Vessels (CTVs) to support the growing Japanese offshore energy market and advancing global shipbuilding collaboration.

Mr. Sukumar Verma, Managing Director, Informa Markets Singapore, said: “Forging partnerships, collaboration, and community building will play a vital role in the transformation of the offshore energy industry. OSEA reinforces the power and reputation of Singapore as an important leader in global offshore energy and as a key maritime hub.”

“I am proud of how Informa Markets continues to provide an inspiring and informative platform for the offshore energy community with creative thinking to support professional development, individual wellbeing and industry growth. Thank you to all exhibitors, speakers, partners and visitors for your excellent collaboration.” 

OSEA will return to Singapore in November 2026.  More information on this can be found here. 

Informa Markets will host its next maritime event, Sea Asia, in Singapore in March 2025 - marking its 10th edition as the premier international marketplace for the maritime industry. 

Photo credit: OSEA 2024, Informa Markets Singapore
Published: 25 November, 2024 

The Methanol Institute, provides an exclusive weekly commentary on developments related to the adoption of methanol as a bunker fuel, including significant related events recorded during the week, for the readers of bunkering publication Manifold Times:

At a time when the industry conversation around alternative fuels is focussing on supply of renewables and the need for long term agreements to cover their consumption, this week saw agreements for production, offtake, training and last mile delivery all make significant progress.

Demand from shippers and shipowners is also set to grow, with leading retailers inviting carriers to bid on contracts for low emission transport and leading container lines considering further orders for methanol-powered containerships.

Methanol marine fuel related developments for Week 46 of 2024:

Peninsula Expands Fleet with Advanced Tankers to Support Conventional and Alternative Fuel Supply

Date: November 12, 2024

Key Points:

Leading marine fuel supplier Peninsula, has announced plans to enhance its fleet by ordering up to 10 new 7,700 DWT IMO II chemical tankers through its subsidiary, Hercules Tanker Management (HTM). The initial order includes six vessels from Jiangmen Hangtong shipyard in China, with an option for four additional ships to be confirmed later this year. These 'ultra-spec' tankers, designed to supply up to 100% biofuel and various forms of methanol, feature diesel-electric and battery-ready power propulsion. Enhanced hull and propeller designs are expected to reduce emissions by approximately 20% compared to older vessels. 

Seafarer Training Overhaul Planned for Transition to Methanol and Other Green Fuels

Date: November 12, 2024

Key Points:

The Maritime Just Transition Task Force (MJTTF) and Lloyd's Register's Maritime Decarbonisation Hub and the UN Global Compact's Ocean Stewardship Coalition, have developed a comprehensive training framework to prepare seafarers for the use of green fuels like methanol, ammonia, and hydrogen. This initiative follows extensive workshops involving over 100 stakeholders to identify the unique requirements and opportunities these fuels present.

The framework focuses on equipping seafarers with advanced skills and knowledge to manage the innovative technologies and processes associated with green fuels, including updated fire detection systems, enhanced safety equipment protocols, and effective emergency response strategies.

A key tool, the Instructor Handbook, will be introduced by the World Maritime University in May 2025, supported by the IMO and LRF. This effort underscores the industry's proactive approach to ensuring seafarers are well-prepared for the transition to zero-emission fuels, fostering both safety and operational excellence.

Amazon and IKEA Drive Demand for E-Methanol Through Zero-Emission Shipping Initiative

Date: November 13, 2024

Key Points:

Amazon and IKEA, alongside 36 other major companies, have joined the Zero Emissions Maritime Buyers Alliance (ZEMBA) to promote the adoption of near-zero-emission fuels like e-methanol in ocean freight. In January, the alliance will invite shipping firms to bid on contracts for transporting cargo using vessels powered by e-fuels. These three- to five-year contracts are expected to begin in 2027.

The initiative is designed to create demand for renewable e-fuels, combining members’ purchasing power to drive innovation and reduce costs over time. The first contracts are projected to transport approximately 1.4 million TEU from Shanghai to Los Angeles, potentially abating 470,000 metric tons of greenhouse gas emissions.

Key shipping companies, including Maersk and Evergreen, have already ordered methanol-capable ships, signaling industry momentum. ZEMBA’s efforts align with anticipated global regulations, including phased GHG intensity reductions and a carbon pricing mechanism, which aim to incentivize zero-emission fuel adoption. This collective action underscores a critical step toward achieving net-zero emissions in ocean shipping by 2050.

Emvolon Secures Green Methanol Offtake Agreements with Oberon Fuels and SAFE Bulkers

Date: November 14, 2024

Key Points:

Emvolon, an MIT spin-off specialising in converting biogas into methanol, has signed two significant offtake agreements to supply green methanol. The first agreement is a five-year contract with Oberon Fuels, a company focused on renewable dimethyl ether (DME) and methanol production. The second agreement involves supplying green methanol to two vessels operated by SAFE Bulkers, a shipping firm integrating alternative fuels into its fleet.

These agreements follow Emvolon's recent field pilot with Montauk Renewables, highlighting the company's progress in commercialising its proprietary technology for sustainable methanol production.

Additionally, shipping company Dorian LPG has invested in Emvolon, further supporting its development efforts. Emvolon's technology addresses methane emissions from sources like landfills and farms by converting them into valuable green methanol, contributing to environmental sustainability and resource utilisation.

Evergreen Considers 11 Methanol-Fuelled Megamax Boxships to Expand Green Fleet

Date: November 14, 2024

Key Points:

Taiwanese shipping giant Evergreen Marine is evaluating an order for 11 methanol-capable Megamax container ships, each with a capacity of 24,000 TEU. The company has approached six shipbuilders to submit proposals for the vessels, which are estimated to cost between $250 million and $265 million each.

Delivery is projected between 2028 and 2029. This potential order would complement Evergreen's existing fleet of 23 conventionally fueled Megamax ships and its current orderbook of 24 methanol-powered vessels exceeding 16,000 TEU. 

Caterpillar Marine Achieves Milestone with DNV Approval for Methanol-Ready Dual-Fuel Engines

Date: November 15, 2024

Key Points:

Caterpillar Marine has received Approval in Principle (AiP) from DNV for its Cat® 3500E methanol-ready dual-fuel marine engines, marking a significant development in alternative marine fuel technologies. These engines, available in 12- and 16-cylinder configurations, support methanol as a primary fuel and can reduce greenhouse gas emissions across maritime segments, particularly high-load vessels like tugs. Caterpillar offers both methanol-ready new engines and retrofit kits for existing 3500E engines.

Photo credit: Methanol Institute
Published: 22 November, 2024