Singapore launches new standard on methanol bunkering, paving way for transition to sustainable alternative fuels

Singapore launches new standard on methanol bunkering, paving way for transition to sustainable alternative fuels

The Maritime and Port Authority of Singapore (MPA) and Enterprise Singapore (EnterpriseSG), through the Singapore Standards Council (SSC), have published a new Technical Reference (TR) 129 on Methanol Bunkering to provide a comprehensive framework for the safe and efficient use of methanol as an alternative fuel for bunkering operations.

The move is described as an important step towards operationalising methanol bunkering at scale, driving Singapore’s ambitions as a sustainable, multi-fuel bunkering hub.  

TR 129 sets out requirements covering safe handling, transfer, and measurement of methanol in bunkering operations. These include: 

-       Custody transfer requirements, comprising quantity and quality measurements for ship-to-ship methanol bunkering operations; 

-       Operational and safety requirements for the delivery of methanol from a bunker tanker to receiving vessels, including a framework for crew training and competencies; and 

-       Guidance on the use of mass flow meters (MFM) to ensure accurate quantity management and digital documentation for bunkering. 

R 129 was developed by the Working Group (WG) on Methanol Bunkering, supported by the Standards Development Organisation at Singapore Chemical Industry Council (SDO@SCIC). The WG comprises government agencies, research institutes, and industry stakeholders such as bunker suppliers, bunker craft operators, engine manufacturers, testing and certification bodies, shipowners and operators, among others. 

Mr David Foo, MPA Assistant Chief Executive (Operations/Operations Technology), said: ““The development of the Technical Reference 129 on the safe and efficient use of methanol for bunkering in Singapore is the result of the collective efforts by government agencies, industry partners, and research institutes. 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 use of sustainable fuels.”

Following the completion of the world’s first ship-to-container ship methanol bunkering operation in July 2023, MPA also conducted the first simultaneous methanol bunkering and cargo operations in May 2024 at Tuas Port with the use of the MFM system for methanol and digital bunkering (pictured). The learnings and experience gained, including in fuelling procedure, crew training, and emergency responses, contributed to the development of TR 129.

Interested parties can learn more on the standard and its implementation at an upcoming seminar, taking place on the sidelines of the Singapore Maritime Week 2025. More information can be found at https://scic.sg/index.php/en/#upcoming.

TR 129 can be purchased from the Singapore Standards e-shop (https://www.singaporestandardseshop.sg/).