MPA Singapore exploring options to scale up LNG bunkering
The Maritime and Port Authority of Singapore (MPA) has launched an
Expression of Interest (EOI) to explore scalable solutions for sea-based
liquefied natural gas (LNG) reloading and the supply of e/bio-methane as marine
fuel in the Port of Singapore.
This development reportedly complements the existing onshore LNG bunkering
storage and jetty capacities.
LNG bunkering in Singapore has grown from 16,000 tonnes delivered in 2022
to over 385,000 tonnes delivered from January to October 2024.
The EOI seeks to gather proposals on three areas: to scale up sea-based
reloading operations, including ship-to-bunker barge LNG operations; to
facilitate the supply of LNG alternatives such as liquefied bio-methane; and to
develop floating platform concepts to enhance bunkering safety and
efficiency.
The EOI proposals should also include mitigation measures to address the
issue of methane slip on a well-to-wake basis.
Participants in the EOI do not need to be an existing LNG bunkering
licensee, as per MPA’s statement. Participants are required to propose models
for operationalising sea-based LNG reloading starting from 2025.
Participants selected will be required to conduct trials in Singapore to
validate the proposed solution’s operational feasibility and safety.
Insights gained from the EOI and trials will inform MPA’s review of the LNG
licensing framework, including enhancements to supply to better serve the
industry’s bunkering needs.
In October, the MPA and the IRENA signed a Memorandum of Understanding
(MoU) to accelerate the energy transition in the global maritime and port
sectors.
Earlier this month, Mitsui O.S.K. Lines, Ltd. (MOL) signed a comprehensive
Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the MPA to deepen cooperation in the
fields of decarbonisation, digitalisation, and human resources development.
