The Maritime and Port Authority of Singapore (MPA) has opened applications for licences to supply methanol as a marine fuel in Singapore.

This follows the finalisation of Singapore's methanol bunkering licensing framework and standards, which incorporated input from over 50 proposals received under MPA's Expression of Interest (EOI) launched in December 2023, as well as methanol bunkering trials and operations conducted in Singapore since 2023.

MPA said licensees are required to implement end-to-end methanol bunkering supply solutions as bunker suppliers and bunker craft operators. This includes securing the methanol supply to Singapore, implementing quality assurance plans, ensuring proper storage and safe handling of methanol, and establishing emergency response measures.

They must also have the necessary manpower and expertise to carry out methanol bunkering operations in Singapore.

Additionally, licensees are required to own and operate at least one IMO Type 2 chemical tanker.

Licensees must also supply methanol as a marine bunker fuel to vessels in Singapore during the licensing period from January 1, 2026, to December 31, 2030.

"To support international shipping's decarbonisation efforts, licensees must supply methanol that meets the specified carbon intensity on a well-to-wake basis, demonstrate a transparent and accurate chain of custody methodology to track emissions from source to delivery, and possess operational experience, readiness, and emergency response preparedness," the announcement said.

Licensees will be required to meet the prevailing standards and measures at the national and International Maritime Organization level.

Bunker players are also expected to adopt mass flow meters, digital bunkering, and the new standards for methanol bunkering in Singapore before operations begin.

MPA said it might invite licensees to work with MPA on suitable methanol bunkering pilots and exercises in 2025.

MPA said companies interested must submit their application to MPA by May 28, 2025.