In a groundbreaking operation at PSA’s Pasir Panjang Terminal, Singapore has successfully conducted the world’s largest ethanol bunkering operation. This initiative, completed on 17 October 2026, involved Maersk, Golden Island Pte Ltd, and PSA Singapore, with support from the Maritime and Port Authority of Singapore (MPA). The operation saw the Maersk Halifax, a dual-fuel container vessel, bunkered with 5,000 metric tonnes of ISCC-certified bioethanol, marking a significant step in the maritime industry’s transition to sustainable fuels.
The operation, conducted simultaneously with cargo operations, utilised a mass flow metre (MFM) for the bunkering process. This achievement provides valuable data for adapting Singapore’s methanol bunkering standards to ethanol, which shares similar handling characteristics. The findings will also assess the feasibility of using existing MFM systems for future ethanol bunkering.
Safety was paramount, with a comprehensive Hazard Identification and Hazard and Operability Study workshop conducted prior to the operation. MPA ensured that crew members were well-trained in handling the marine fuel and emergency responses, leveraging experiences from methanol bunkering.
Ang Wee Keong, CEO of MPA, highlighted the operation’s role in testing Singapore’s infrastructure for supporting emerging marine fuels. Emma Mazhari, Head of Energy Markets at Maersk, emphasised the importance of a multi-fuel strategy in the energy transition. Johnny Tan, Managing Director of Golden Island, expressed pride in the successful execution and collaboration with partners.
This operation not only advances Singapore’s readiness for lower-carbon fuel options but also supports the maritime industry’s decarbonisation efforts, paving the way for a more sustainable future.
