In a groundbreaking move towards digitalization in the maritime industry, TotalEnergies Marine Fuels has successfully conducted its first digital bunker delivery for Mitsui O.S.K. Lines, Ltd. (MOL) in Singapore. The adoption of Bunkerchain’s eBDN system, Touch and Sail, has revolutionized the bunkering process, enhancing efficiency and sustainability.
On 2nd February, TotalEnergies supplied fuel to the MOL-owned car carrier, Swallow Ace, marking a significant milestone in the digital transformation of bunkering operations. Through the Touch and Sail platform, an electronic Bunker Delivery Note (eBDN) was issued seamlessly, with the transaction promptly transmitted to the Maritime and Port Authority of Singapore, underscoring the efficiency and reliability of digital bunkering.
Louise Tricoire, Vice President of TotalEnergies Marine Fuels said: “We are really proud of this achievement which not only improves the efficiency of our bunkering operations but ensures our processes are fit for purpose as the shipping industry transitions to a decarbonized future. This operation keeps us ahead of regulatory requirements in Singapore and demonstrates our commitment to sustainability in the maritime sector and our approach to supporting our customers in their operations.”
The shift towards digital bunkering eliminates the risks associated with human errors and reduces paperwork, which traditionally involves multiple personnel and physical interactions between vessels. According to the Maritime and Port Authority of Singapore, digitizing bunkering could save the industry nearly 40,000 man-days annually, demonstrating its potential for efficiency gains.
TotalEnergies Marine Fuels has been collaborating with Bunkerchain since late 2022, following their involvement in a biofuels bunkering trial initiated by the Global Centre for Maritime Decarbonization (GCMD). This partnership has led to significant advancements, including the issuance of Electronic Certificates of Quantity (E-CQ) and Electronic Certificates of Quality (E-COQ) in collaboration with Jurong Port Universal Terminal (JPUT).
Moreover, TotalEnergies has been a pioneer in digitalization since 2020, initiating the issuance of e-BDNs for its LNG bunker operations in Europe. Leveraging its chartered bunker vessels, Gas Agility and Gas Vitality, both owned by MOL, TotalEnergies continues to spearhead digital innovation in the maritime sector.
The successful digital bunker delivery for MOL in Singapore signifies a paradigm shift in the bunkering industry, paving the way for enhanced efficiency, transparency, and sustainability in maritime, bunkering operations. TotalEnergies Marine Fuels remains at the forefront of this transformation, driving positive change towards a greener future for shipping.
Source TotalEnergies