Singapore conducts first methanol bunkering trial under new standard

Singapore has completed its first methanol bunkering trial under TR 129 — the methanol bunkering standard released in March — the Maritime and Port Authority of Singapore (MPA) said.

IMAGE: MT Kara delivering methanol stem to Antonio Maersk in Singapore. MPA

The technical reference, TR 129, sets out the core requirements for safely handling, transferring and measuring methanol during bunkering.

In this trial, 3,012 mt of methanol was supplied from MT Kara to the container vessel Antonio Maersk. MPA worked with Global Energy Trading and Stellar Shipmanagement Services to carry out the operation.

MT Kara’s mass flow metering (MFM) system passed an acceptance test to meet TR 129 requirements before bunkering began. The transfer occurred after dark, supported by detailed risk assessments, mitigation measures, and on-site weather monitoring by both MT Kara and the MPA patrol craft.

“This trial is significant because it validates that methanol bunkering can be carried out safely and efficiently under the new TR 129 standard, which sets out clear requirements for the handling, transfer and measurement of methanol as a marine fuel in Singapore,” MPA said.

Last month, MPA issued three methanol bunkering licences valid for five years from 1 January 2026. This week, Singapore-based supplier Golden Island said it expects to have four IMO Type II chemical tankers ready to deliver methanol bunker fuel in Singapore when its licence takes effect next year.

By Tuhin Roy

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