Singapore completes LNG to tanker bunkering operation

Singapore's first LNG bunkering vessel FueLNG Bellina has completed its first ship-to-ship LNG bunkering operation of an LNG-powered oil tanker.

A total of 3,000m³ of LNG was transferred to the Pacific Emerald, an aframax tanker owned by Shell. FueLNG then completed the gas-up and cool down operation. FueLNG is a joint venture between Singapore's Keppel Offshore & Marine and Shell.

FueLNG in March this year completed its first ship-to-container vessel LNG bunkering operation. It aims to provide a total of 30-50 LNG bunkering refuellings this year for various types of vessels.

Singapore is promoting the adoption of LNG as an alternative bunker fuel, as it is immediately available and can reduce greenhouse gas emissions by up to 23pc during the life cycle of producing a fuel to using it in a vessel.

The city-state in April announced the setting up a of global maritime decarbonisation centre, with it partnering various companies to study and trial low-carbon marine fuels.

The International Maritime Organisation has set a goal for the maritime industry to lower carbon emissions by at least 40pc by 2030 relative to 2008 levels and by 70pc by 2050.

By Sammy Six