Six companies have entered a memorandum of understanding (MoU) on the joint development study of ammonia as a new marine fuel in Singapore.

Itochu Corporation, Itochu Enex Co Ltd, Vopak Terminals Singapore Pte Ltd, Pavilion Energy Singapore Pte Ltd, Mitsui OSK Lines Ltd and Total Marine Fuels Private Limited entered into the MoU on May 17.

The development builds upon an earlier arrangement with Vopak to jointly study the feasibility of developing an infrastructure to support the use of ammonia as an additional source of marine fuel for vessels in Singapore.

In a statement Itochu Corporation said: “[Pavilion Energy, MOL, and Total] have high expertise and experience at each business segment, and are engaging in LNG bunkering business in Singapore. Great contribution to the project will be expected through their participation.”

The purpose of the MoU is not limited to expansion and acceleration of the joint development of an ammonia fuel supply chain, including an on-shore and/or off-shore facility and an ammonia bunkering ship in Singapore. It is also a key element of an integrated project that includes the development of ammonia fuelled ship by Itochu with other partners.

Itochu intends to promote initiatives to reduce GHGs with the cooperation of domestic and overseas clients, as well as the relevant government agencies.

Itochu, for its part, will aim to accelerate the development of sustainable energy systems through these initiatives, ensure “contributions to the SDGs and improved efforts” as one of the basic policies of its new medium-term management plan, and achieve a low-carbon society.

For more information visit www.itochu.co.jp/en/index.html

21st May 2021