First ship-to-containership LNG bunkering operation in Asia undertaken

It underscores Singapore’s goal to become a leading LNG bunkering hub in Asia.

The first ship-to-containership liquefied natural gas (LNG) bunkering operation in Asia has recently been undertaken by shipping and logistics company CMA CGM, LNG bunker supplier FueLNG, and the Maritime and Port Authority (MPA).

FueLNG is a joint venture between Keppel Offshore & Marine and Shell Eastern Petroleum.

The containership, CMA CGM Scandola, has been fuelled with around 7,100 cubic metres of LNG from Singapore’s first LNG bunkering vessel, FueLNG Bellina.

CMA CGM Scandola is the first of the six new 15,000 twenty-foot equivalent unit (TEU) LNG-powered containers, which CMA CGM has lined up to be bunkered this year.

“The use of more sustainable fuels is an important element of the decarbonisation strategy. As the shipping industry explores alternative zero-carbon fuels, LNG is a viable transitional fuel. As a global bunkering hub, we are pleased to partner CMA CGM, FueLNG, Keppel Offshore & Marine, and Shell Eastern Petroleum to provide more sustainable bunkering solutions for the shipping industry," Senior Minister of State for Transport and Foreign Affairs Chee Hong Tat said.

This ship-to-containership LNG bunkering operation also underscores the companies’ commitment to contribute to Singapore’s ambition to become a leading LNG bunkering hub in Asia.

An LNG-powered vessel emits up to 20% less carbon dioxide than conventional marine fuel-powered systems.

“The use of LNG as a marine fuel is fast gaining traction worldwide amidst a global push to use cleaner shipping fuels. As the world’s top bunkering and transshipment hub port, MPA is pleased that we are able to facilitate Asia’s very first ship-to-ship LNG bunkering operation with simultaneous cargo operations,” MPA Chief Executive Quah Ley Hoon said.