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The Port of Singapore has today launched its first request for proposal (RFP) for interested parties to apply for the liquefied natural gas (LNG) bunker supplier licence, which would allow the licensee to supply LNG bunker to vessels in the city-state port.

In their submissions to the Maritime and Port Authority of Singapore (MPA), applicants are to propose an end-to-end LNG bunkering supply solution that details, amongst other things, their bunkering supply and delivery model, LNG sources and marketing plans for the sale of LNG to customers in the Port of Singapore.

Interested applicants for the RFP have until September 30, 2015, to submit their proposals to the MPA. The shortlisted proposals will be announced by the MPA by end of this year.

Details of the RFP can be found on the MPA's website, via the following link:

http://www.mpa.gov.sg/sites/pdf/lng_bunkering_request_for_proposal.pdf

As part of its efforts to develop LNG bunkering, the MPA has been collaborating closely with partner agencies, industry stakeholders and technical experts, to develop LNG bunkering standards, procedures and facilities in Singapore.

Last year, the MPA announced commencing work on a pilot programme with interested parties of the LNG bunker supply chain to establish operation protocols for LNG bunkering. The MPA is to also provide funding of up to S$2 million per vessel for up to six LNG-fuelled vessels for the pilot programme.

Successful applicants of the RFP are expected to supply LNG bunker to support the LNG bunkering pilot programme that is scheduled to commence in early 2017.

With more than 42 million tonnes of bunker sales last year as the world's top bunkering port, Singapore plays a key role in powering ships around the world.