Japanese trio to test ammonia bunkering in Singapore
Japanese companies Sumitomo Corporation, Kawasaki Kisen Kaisha (K Line), and Nippon Yusen Kabushiki Kaisha (NYK Line) have secured financial support for a demonstration project to supply ammonia as bunker fuel in Singapore.
IMAGE: Container ship with working crane bridge in shipyard in Singapore. Getty Images
The project is backed by Japan’s Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry (METI) through the AEM-METI Economic and Industrial Cooperation Committee (AMEICC) and has also received a government grant.
Under the initiative, the partners will carry out a trial supply of ammonia fuel via ship-to-ship (STS) transfer, using a bunkering vessel that meets regulatory requirements set by the Singapore Government.
The demonstration aims to establish safety standards and fine-tune operational procedures, laying the groundwork for the commercial rollout of ammonia bunkering in Singapore.
Currently, ammonia is widely traded for use in fertilisers and chemical production, with only limited application as a marine fuel. Its adoption in shipping introduces additional challenges due to its toxic nature.
As part of the project, feasibility studies will examine supply infrastructure, operational risks, and environmental and safety considerations to assess the viability of ammonia as a safe marine fuel.
“Singapore is the world’s largest bunkering hub. With its well-developed port infrastructure and operational expertise, the country offers a practical testing environment for the commercialisation of ammonia fuel,” NYK Line said.
Separately, Singapore-based bunker supplier Golden Island and ammonia producer Yara Clean Ammonia have partnered with shipping company NYK Bulkship (Asia) to supply low-carbon ammonia for bunkering in Singapore.
By Tuhin Roy
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