The Maritime and Port Authority of Singapore (MPA) and Enterprise Singapore (EnterpriseSG), in collaboration with the Singapore Standards Council (SSC), have unveiled a new Technical Reference (TR) 129 on Methanol Bunkering. This important development provides a comprehensive framework designed to ensure the safe and efficient use of methanol as an alternative fuel for bunkering operations. With the global shipping industry increasingly looking for sustainable fuel options, this move is a key step towards operationalizing methanol bunkering at scale and enhancing Singapore’s ambitions as a leading sustainable, multi-fuel bunkering hub.
Key Elements of TR 129
TR 129 sets out a series of requirements to ensure the safe handling, transfer, and measurement of methanol during bunkering operations. These elements are crucial for ensuring that methanol can be adopted at scale while maintaining high safety standards. The key areas covered by TR 129 are:
- Custody Transfer Requirements: The new standard includes stringent requirements for the custody transfer of methanol. This involves detailed protocols to ensure the accurate measurement of both the quantity and quality of methanol during ship-to-ship bunkering operations. These procedures ensure that all parties involved have a clear and reliable record of the transfer.
- Operational and Safety Guidelines: TR 129 provides detailed operational and safety requirements for the delivery of methanol from bunker tankers to receiving vessels. This includes guidelines on the safe handling of the fuel and outlines the necessary training and competencies for crew members involved in the bunkering process. The safety protocols are designed to mitigate risks associated with methanol, ensuring safe practices across the industry.
- Use of Mass Flow Meters (MFM): The standard offers guidance on the use of Mass Flow Meters (MFM) to ensure the accurate measurement of methanol quantities. Additionally, TR 129 mandates the use of digital documentation for bunkering activities. This ensures that all transactions are properly recorded and traceable, contributing to transparency and efficiency in bunkering operations.
Collaborative Development of TR 129
TR 129 was developed through extensive collaboration between a wide range of stakeholders, including government agencies, research institutes, and industry players. The working group (WG) behind the development of the standard included representatives from bunker suppliers, bunker craft operators, engine manufacturers, testing and certification bodies, shipowners, and operators, among others. The involvement of so many industry stakeholders ensures that the standard is comprehensive and addresses the practical needs and concerns of the maritime community.
The effort was supported by the Singapore Chemical Industry Council (SCIC) and the Standards Development Organisation at SCIC (SDO@SCIC), ensuring that TR 129 benefits from technical expertise and industry insights.
Statements from Industry Leaders
MPA’s Assistant Chief Executive (Operations/Operations Technology), David Foo, expressed the significance of TR 129 in facilitating the safe and efficient use of methanol in Singapore’s bunkering operations.
“The development of TR 129 on the safe and efficient use of methanol for bunkering in Singapore is the result of the collective efforts of government agencies, industry partners, and research institutes,” said Foo. “It provides clear guidelines to support the safe adoption of methanol as a marine fuel and gives the industry greater confidence in their transition to the use of sustainable fuels.”
Enterprise Singapore’s Director-General (Quality & Excellence), Ms. Choy Sauw Kook, also emphasized the role of standards in Singapore’s continued success as a global bunkering hub.
“Singapore’s reputation as one of the world’s leading bunkering hubs has always been underscored by our commitment to delivering safe, reliable, and industry-first bunkering services. Standards and conformance have played an important role in establishing this strong foundation,” Ms. Choy said. “TR 129 will help to equip our local operators with not only the capabilities, but also the confidence to carry out methanol bunkering operations and pave the way towards a multi-fuel future in Singapore.”
Learning from Landmark Methanol Bunkering Operations
TR 129 draws from key learnings gained from groundbreaking methanol bunkering operations. Notably, Singapore conducted the world’s first ship-to-container ship methanol bunkering operation in July 2023, followed by the first simultaneous methanol bunkering and cargo operations at Tuas Port in May 2024. These operations incorporated Mass Flow Meters (MFM) and digital bunkering systems, providing invaluable data on fueling procedures, crew training, and emergency response strategies. These insights were instrumental in shaping the final version of TR 129.
The integration of MFMs and digital documentation in these operations ensured precise measurements and streamlined the bunkering process, reducing the risk of errors and improving the overall efficiency of the operations.
Looking Ahead: Supporting the Industry’s Transition to Alternative Fuels
The introduction of TR 129 is a critical part of Singapore’s broader strategy to become a global leader in alternative marine fuels. This new standard is set to make methanol bunkering operations safer, more efficient, and more transparent, offering both local and international operators the assurance they need to adopt this sustainable fuel.
Following the release of TR 129, MPA plans to introduce additional standards focused on improving the operational efficiency of methanol bunker tankers and other equipment. These upcoming standards will further support Singapore’s goal of developing a comprehensive and sustainable methanol bunkering ecosystem.
How to Learn More About TR 129
Interested parties can gain further insights into the standard and its implementation by attending a seminar during Singapore Maritime Week 2025. The seminar will provide a detailed overview of the new requirements and how they can be integrated into current operations.
Additionally, those wishing to purchase TR 129 can do so through the Singapore Standards e-shop
Strengthening Singapore’s Position as a Multi-Fuel Bunkering Hub
The launch of TR 129 marks a significant milestone in Singapore’s efforts to lead the global maritime industry toward a sustainable future powered by alternative fuels. The introduction of this new standard will ensure that methanol can be used safely and efficiently in bunkering operations, paving the way for a multi-fuel future that enhances the overall sustainability of the maritime sector.
With continued innovation and collaboration, Singapore remains committed to strengthening its position as a global leader in sustainable bunkering services.
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 54 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