Singapore Sets Sail Toward a Greener Future: Biofuel Blends Get the Green Light
Singapore is making waves in the maritime industry with a bold move toward sustainable shipping. The Maritime and Port Authority of Singapore (MPA) has announced a significant update: conventional bunker ships registered in Singapore can now carry and deliver biofuel blends up to B30 without needing separate approval. This change, effective March 7, 2025, marks a major step in the city-state’s commitment to reducing carbon emissions and embracing cleaner energy solutions.
Breaking Down the B30 Barrier
Previously, Singapore-registered bunker ships were limited to carrying biofuel blends up to B25. The new regulation, outlined in a March 6 circular, raises the bar to B30, allowing ships to transport higher concentrations of biofuels without additional red tape. This shift is part of Singapore’s broader strategy to position itself as a global leader in sustainable maritime practices.
For blends up to B30, bunker suppliers and operators must conduct thorough technical and operational risk assessments, ensuring both buyers and sellers are aligned before delivery. However, for biofuel blends exceeding B30 or those not listed in the International Bulk Chemical (IBC) Code, suppliers will still need to seek approval from MPA’s Standards & Investigation – Marine Fuels (SIMF) department. This cautious approach ensures safety while encouraging innovation.
Pioneering the Future of Marine Fuels
Singapore isn’t stopping at B30. The MPA has revealed that pilots for B100 biofuel blends are already underway, offering bunker suppliers the chance to test the waters—literally. These trials aim to evaluate the efficacy and operational processes of higher-concentration biofuels, paving the way for broader adoption in the future.
This initiative aligns with the International Maritime Organization’s (IMO) upcoming interim circular, set to be discussed at the Marine Environment Protection Committee’s 83rd session in April. The circular will allow conventional bunker ships certified under MARPOL Annex I to transport biofuel blends of up to 30%, further solidifying Singapore’s role as a trailblazer in sustainable shipping.
Biofuels on the Rise: A Growing Market
The demand for alternative bunker fuels is surging. In 2024, sales of these fuels surpassed one million tonnes for the first time, reaching an impressive 1.34 million tonnes. Biofuel blends, in particular, saw a significant jump, growing from 0.52 million tonnes in 2023 to 0.88 million tonnes in 2024. While blends up to B50 are already commercially available, the push toward B100 represents the next frontier in marine fuel innovation.
Singapore has been at the forefront of these advancements. In 2021, the city-state conducted its first marine biofuel trial involving an ocean-going vessel. Fast forward to 2024, and companies like Vitol Bunkers and Norden are making headlines with specialized biofuel bunker barges and groundbreaking B100 deliveries. These efforts underscore Singapore’s commitment to leading the charge in sustainable maritime solutions.
