India’s first green methanol bunkering and refuelling facility broke ground at VOC Port, by SOPAN Group and VOCPA. Inaugurated by Union Minister Sarbananda Sonowal, the 750 m³ pilot terminal advances Net Zero 2070 and Maritime India Vision 2030 goals, promising up to 95% ship CO2 cuts and a maritime hub.
South Africa’s government has implemented new regulations on ship-to-ship transfers and bunkering to protect the endangered African penguin colony in Algoa Bay. Prohibiting STS transfers near the shore and in protected areas, the measures aim to reduce environmental risks amid rising maritime traffic, raising concerns among conservationists about wildlife impacts.
Vitol Bunkers has launched a FuelEU Maritime-compliant co-processed bunkering fuel produced at its Fujairah refinery. The fuel, meeting RMG380 VLSFO standards, ensures compliance without extra permissions. With sustainable elements from used cooking oil, it promises over 70% reduction in greenhouse gas intensity, aligning with evolving regulatory requirements.
The Port of Rotterdam recently tested its capabilities for future ammonia bunkering operations, in anticipation of the arrival of ammonia-fueled vessels in 2026 or 2027. Safety protocols were enhanced, with successful ship-to-ship transfer of 800 cubic meters of liquid ammonia using gray ammonia. The industry is making strides towards using ammonia as a viable alternative fuel source.
Titan Clean Fuels and Mitsui O.S.K. Lines (MOL) recently completed a groundbreaking LNG and bio-LNG bunkering operation in Belgium. This operation showcased the potential of bio-LNG to reduce GHG emissions in the shipping industry. MOL’s commitment to LNG-fueled vessels highlights the importance of sustainable fuels in achieving decarbonization goals.
Anglo-Eastern has inaugurated a new LNG/ammonia bunkering station skid at Mumbai Maritime Academy on February 20, 2025, enhancing training for safe fueling of LNG- and ammonia-powered vessels. This advanced facility aims to equip industry professionals with essential skills in handling emerging fuels, promoting maritime safety and sustainability amid rising demand.
Global marine fuel sales saw a significant increase in 2024 due to Yemen’s Houthis attacks, leading to rerouted vessels around southern Africa. Singapore and Fujairah experienced record-high volumes, while Rotterdam saw a 12% rise in sales. Diversions to longer routes boosted fuel demand, with hopes of a return to the Red Sea route following a Gaza ceasefire.
The Deendayal Port Authority (DPA) in Kandla, India has partnered with Bapu’s Shipping (Jamnagar) Pvt. Ltd. (BSJPL) to provide bio-methanol bunkering services, marking a significant shift towards sustainable marine fuel solutions. This collaboration highlights India’s commitment to green energy objectives and supports global efforts to reduce carbon emissions in the maritime industry.
HPC Hamburg Port Consulting has won a contract to oversee the H2-Derivatives@BalticSeaPorts initiative, promoting hydrogen-based fuels in Baltic Sea ports. With 15 partners from seven countries, the project aims to accelerate the adoption of green energy in maritime transport. This collaborative effort is crucial for reducing CO2 emissions and shaping a sustainable future for the industry.
In October, marine fuel sales in Singapore hit a nine-month high due to increased container throughput and vessel calls for bunkering. Bunker sales totaled 4.88 million metric tons, marking an 11% increase from the previous month. Low-sulfur fuel saw a significant increase, while high-sulfur marine fuel demand surged.
Starting April 1, 2025, marine fuel suppliers in Singapore must offer digital bunkering services and issue electronic bunker delivery notes. This initiative aims to streamline the bunkering process, save 40,000 man-days per year, and reduce fraud risk. Singapore leads the way in digital bunkering, enhancing efficiency and transparency in the industry.
Houlder has made progress in the SPINE maritime project with the design of a 10,000 cbm methanol bunkering vessel. This initiative aims to connect ships, control centers, port systems, and energy infrastructure for decarbonization and autonomy in the maritime industry. The vessel design includes semi-automated systems for methanol supply, optimized layout for efficiency, and digital twin technology for operational analysis and emissions reduction.
ABS has released an industry-first advisory on methanol bunkering, expanding its guidance on methanol as a marine fuel. The advisory addresses the challenges of bunkering methanol and provides strategies to overcome them. ABS President John McDonald highlighted the importance of supporting the safe adoption of methanol in the maritime industry.
Despite increased demand, price movements for marine fuel oil on March 28 showed mixed trends. Prices in Kochi increased by $20/mt to $700/mt CFR, while Mumbai prices fell to $698/mt. Demand has surged at Indian ports, with changes in shipping routes affecting fuel availability and prompting redirection of inquiries to Sri Lanka.
The new parameters aim to improve quality assurance after a bunker contamination incident in February 2022 that affected 200 ships. Improvements will be mandatory from June, in addition to existing measures. Bunker suppliers must ensure marine fuels do not contain certain compounds and undergo testing before delivery at the Port of Singapore.
