Vitol’s Singaporean bunker operations company, V-Bunkers, has announced that they will be taking delivery of its first electric-hybrid bunker tanker, MARINE CHARGE.
In particular, V-Bunkers placed an order to build two of these cutting-edge vessels in 2021, with the second tanker, MARINE DYNAMO, scheduled for delivery in Q2 2023. These electric-hybrid bunker tankers are designed to significantly reduce carbon emissions in port locations and will be deployed for harbour operations within Singapore.
As explained, the vessels have been built by Zhejiang Shenzhou Sunshine Heavy Industry Co., Ltd. and were designed by a Singapore-based designer. The BV-classed bunker tankers are built with BV’s Electric-Hybrid notation and feature state-of-the-art Energy Storage Systems (ESS) technology, comprising Lithium-ion batteries and a highly automated Power Management System (PMS), to achieve an estimated 10% reduction in GHG emissions.
The design configuration enables the auxiliary engines to operate at the most optimal specific fuel oil consumption (SFOC), while the ESS performs peak shaving during low power consumption periods for usage of stored energy during high consumption periods. The ESS has recharging capabilities, and while onshore power supply is currently unavailable, the bunker tankers are ready for when charging infrastructure and facilities become available in Singapore.
Bureau Veritas is committed to supporting the safe development and deployment of batteries within the maritime sector, and it is heartening to see the industry embrace sustainable solutions to reduce carbon emissions and improve energy efficiency.
..said David Barrow, Vice-President South Asia and Pacific, Bureau Veritas Marine & Offshore.
According to the company, the launch of these electric-hybrid bunker tankers is a significant milestone for V-Bunkers and demonstrates the company’s commitment to sustainable shipping practices. By deploying these vessels in Singapore’s port, V-Bunkers aims to reduce carbon emissions and pave the way for a more sustainable future in the maritime industry.
We are delighted to be the first to bring ESS technology to the local bunker craft sector and thus contribute to the reduction of emissions in the port of Singapore, the world’s largest bunkering port.
..said Mike Muller, Head of Vitol Asia.
