Tue 15 Nov 2022 14:57

ExxonMobil performs biofuel test deliveries in Singapore


MOL LNG carrier refuelled with blend of VLSFO and 25% FAME.

The MOL-owned LNG carrier Papua was supplied with ExxonMobil's bio-based marine fuel in Singapore on August 13 and September 27, 2022 as part of a commercial trial.
Image: ExxonMobil

ExxonMobil reports that it recently performed two commercial ship-to-ship deliveries of bio-based marine fuel as part of a trial phase to test the viability of marine biofuels.

  • The MOL-owned LNG carrier Papua, currently chartered by Papua New Guinea Liquefied Natural Gas Global Company LDC (PNG LNG), was supplied on August 13 and September 27 in Singaporean waters.

Specs: The marine biofuel is a 0.50% sulphur residual-based fuel (VLSFO) processed with up to 25% waste-based fatty acid methyl esters (FAME).

  • The blend is said to meet International Organization for Standardization ISO 8217:2017, with the FAME content complying with EN 14214.
  • The bio component has been accredited by the International Sustainability and Carbon Certification (ISCC) organisation.

What they said: Commenting on the benefits of the product, Kamal Singh, Asia Pacific Commercial Fuels Sales & Marketing Director, ExxonMobil Asia Pacific Pte Ltd, explained: "As an engine-ready fuel, the bio-based marine fuel oil can be used without the need for expensive fuel system or engine modifications, and can help provide ship operators with an immediate reduction in emissions compared with full hydrocarbon alternatives."

  • Discussing the significance of the pilot test, Andre Kostelnik, President of SeaRiver Maritime, Inc., a wholly owned subsidiary of ExxonMobil, stated: "This trial phase is an important step as we continue to test viable marine biofuels as an engine-ready alternative to conventional fuel oil."
  • Peter Larden, Chairman and Managing Director of ExxonMobil PNG Limited, which is the Managing Agent of PNG LNG, added: "Technical learning from this test will prove key to progressing our efforts to determine the safety and technical feasibility of marine biofuel going forward."

Background: ExxonMobil completed its first trial of marine bio fuel oil back in 2020. Trials were carried out in cooperation with Stena Bulk, with bunkering taking place in Rotterdam.

  • Testing was performed whilst the Stena Bulk vessel was in commercial operation and included the evaluation of onboard storage, handling and treatment.
  • Similar to the recent Singapore trial, the bio fuel oil used in Rotterdam was 0.50% sulphur VLSFO processed with a second-generation waste-based FAME component.
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