First VLGC to be bunkered with biofuel in the Middle East

Japanese energy company INPEX will supply a very large gas carrier (VLGC) with B24 biofuel blend of 76% VLSFO and 24% fatty acid methyl ester (FAME) in Khor Fakkan port in UAE.

PHOTO: Monjasa's tanker vessel Monjasa Server completed its first blending and supply of marine biofuels in the UAE last year. Monjasa

The VLGC is chartered by LPG trader Astomos Energy will be the first of its class to be bunkered with biofuel in the Middle East, according to the company.

Blending and bunkering will be handled by a bunker delivery vessel operated by Monjasa. Dubai-based Neutral Foods will supply FAME, which is produced from waste cooking oil sourced in the UAE. 

The B24 biofuel blend is estimated to reduce carbon emissions by 15-20% compared to conventional bunker fuels, claims Astomos Energy.

By Konica Bhatt

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