Vitol delivers first B30-VLSFO biofuel blend in Singapore

Global bunker supplier Vitol delivered the first B30-VLSFO biofuel blend in Singapore using its recently deployed specialised bunker tanker (chemical tanker).

PHOTO: Vitol's specialised bunker tanker Marine Future in Singapore. Vitol

On 14 March, the specialised bunker tanker,Marine Future, delivered a total of 1,100 mt of B30 (30% biofuel feedstock blended with 70% VLSFO) to a vehicle carrier, Grand Hero, chartered by Hyundai Glovis.

The Marine Future’s classification as an IMO type 2 chemical tanker allows it to carry biofuel blends up to B100 (100% biofuel), while other bunker tankers (oil tankers) are allowed to carry biofuel blends with a maximum concentration of 25% bio-component, as per the International Maritime Organization (IMO) rules.

Vitol Bunkers is "able to offer its customers a broad range of biofuels, up to 100% bunker fuel,” Vitol’s head of Asia business Mike Muller said.

In the lead-up to the IMO's 81st Marine Environment Protection Committee (MEPC) meeting last week, South Korea and India proposed that ocean-going bunker delivery vessels should be allowed to carry and supply bunker blends with up to 30% biofuel.

However, the proposal did not get much backing from other IMO member states at MEPC 81.

By Nithin Chandran

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