PSA Singapore completes first ethanol bunkering

PSA Singapore has played a central role in completing the country’s first ethanol bunkering operation at Pasir Panjang Terminal, demonstrating how alternative marine fuels can be supplied alongside live container handling.

The operation, conducted with Maersk, Golden Island and the Maritime and Port Authority of Singapore (MPA), marks a step towards integrating lower-carbon fuels into port operations.

The Singapore-registered dual-fuel container vessel Maersk Halifax received approximately 5,000 metric tonnes of ISCC-certified bioethanol from Golden Island’s chemical tanker Golden Centaurus. The transfer took place simultaneously with cargo operations, known as simultaneous operations (SIMOPS), using a mass flow meter. It also represented the largest volume of ethanol bunkered in a single operation globally to date.

“The successful completion of the SIMOPS at Pasir Panjang Terminal marks an important step in advancing our operational readiness for a wider range of lower-carbon fuel options, supporting PSA’s commitment to sustainability and the maritime industry’s decarbonisation efforts,” said Nelson Quek, regional chief executive Southeast Asia at PSA International.

He added that safety remained the foremost priority and the operation would provide valuable insights into integrating ethanol bunkering with container terminal activities.

The operation will help assess whether Singapore’s existing technical reference for methanol bunkering, TR 129, can be adapted for ethanol, which has similar handling characteristics. Findings will also inform whether existing mass flow meter systems can support future ethanol bunkering operations.

Safety preparations included a hazard identification and hazard and operability study workshop involving the participating parties. MPA worked with stakeholders to ensure crews received training in fuel handling and emergency response, drawing on experience gained from methanol bunkering.

Ang Wee Keong, chief executive of MPA, said the operation would help Singapore develop the standards and procedures required for safe, efficient ethanol bunkering.