The Maritime and Port Authority of Singapore (MPA Singapore) has initiated an Expression of Interest (EOI) to develop scalable sea-based liquefied natural gas (LNG) reloading solutions and explore the supply of e/bio-methane as alternative marine fuels in the Port of Singapore. This strategic move aims to enhance the port’s bunkering infrastructure, aligning with global efforts to adopt cleaner marine fuels and improve operational efficiency.
LNG Bunkering Growth and Future Vision
Singapore has witnessed remarkable growth in LNG bunkering activities, with volumes surging from 16,000 tonnes in 2022 to over 385,000 tonnes between January and October 2024. Building on this momentum, the EOI is designed to achieve three key objectives:
- Scaling Up Sea-Based Reloading Operations
Proposals are sought for ship-to-bunker barge LNG operations to complement the existing onshore LNG bunkering infrastructure, including storage and jetty capacities. - Facilitating LNG Alternatives
The initiative encourages proposals for incorporating liquefied bio-methane and other LNG alternatives, reflecting Singapore’s commitment to diversifying its fuel offerings. - Innovative Floating Platform Concepts
Proposals for developing floating platforms to enhance bunkering safety and efficiency are encouraged. These platforms are expected to address critical challenges, such as operational risks and methane slip mitigation on a well-to-wake basis.
Open Call for Innovative Proposals
The EOI welcomes participation from both existing and new stakeholders in the LNG bunkering sector. Proposals should outline models for operationalizing sea-based LNG reloading starting in 2025, with selected participants required to conduct trials in Singapore to validate the feasibility and safety of their solutions.
Insights from this initiative will play a pivotal role in shaping the future of Singapore’s LNG licensing framework, ensuring it meets the evolving demands of the bunkering industry.
Submission Details
Interested parties are invited to review submission guidelines on the MPA website (MPA EOI LNG Link) and submit their proposals by 28 February 2025, 1:00 pm (Singapore time).
This announcement underscores Singapore’s proactive approach in pioneering advancements in LNG and alternative fuel bunkering, maintaining its status as a global leader in maritime innovation.
About MPA Singapore
The Maritime and Port Authority of Singapore (MPA Singapore) plays a pivotal role in shaping Singapore as a global hub for maritime trade and bunkering. Established in 1997, MPA oversees the country’s extensive port operations, ensuring safety, efficiency, and sustainability in one of the world’s busiest ports. Singapore is consistently ranked as the top bunkering port globally, handling over 50 million metric tons of bunker fuel annually.
MPA Singapore is committed to promoting innovation in maritime practices and fostering collaboration within the industry to enhance maritime safety, decarbonisation, and digitalisation. With a strategic vision to lead in sustainable shipping, MPA continues to support the maritime community through various initiatives and partnerships, positioning Singapore at the forefront of the global maritime landscape.
Source MPA Singapore