Singapore's Energy Market Authority (EMA) and Maritime and Port Authority (MPA) have appointed a consortium led by Keppel Ltd. The group will conduct the next phase of a project developing low- or zero-carbon ammonia solutions for power generation and marine fuel bunkering on Jurong Island.

The consortium will undertake a Front-End Engineering Design (FEED) study to advance proposals for generating 55 to 65 MW of electricity from ammonia imported directly from combustion in a Combined Cycle Gas Turbine. Sumitomo Corporation, serving as Keppel's bunkering partner, will conduct a separate FEED study for ammonia bunkering facilities with a capacity of at least 0.1 million tonnes per annum.

The project has not yet reached Final Investment Decision status. Subject to the findings of the FEED study, the development aims to create an end-to-end solution for ammonia bunkering. This innovation will cover power generation and marine fuel supply.

The Singapore government stated that it will work closely with Keppel Ltd to ensure safe and effective operational design, given ammonia's early-stage development for power generation and bunkering applications.

The consortium was selected from six shortlisted groups that participated in a multi-phase restricted Request for Proposal process, following an Expression of Interest issued in 2022.

The project forms part of Singapore's National Hydrogen Strategy, launched in 2022. The strategy explores low-carbon hydrogen as a decarbonization pathway in support of the nation's commitment to achieving net-zero emissions by 2050. The approach emphasises experimentation with advanced hydrogen technologies.

Ammonia produces no carbon emissions when combusted and serves as a hydrogen carrier with an established international supply chain for industrial use. The compound can be stored and transported over long distances, making it suitable for Singapore's energy transition requirements.

As the shipping industry seeks to reduce carbon emissions in line with International Maritime Organization targets, the development represents Singapore's continued efforts to establish alternative marine fuel infrastructure.