The Maritime and Port Authority of Singapore (MPA) has quashed reports indicating it was ready to conduct the first transfer of ammonia in Singapore’s port waters before the end of 2023.

In a statement, it said the timeline “is not realistic” and should not prejudge the outcomes of the Expression of Interest (EOI) to build, own and operate low or zero-carbon hydrogen and ammonia bunkering solutions (which closed April 30), as well as further assessments and standards development by MPA and relevant agencies.

The MPA said it welcomes studies, pilots and collaborations that contribute to the maritime sector’s decarbonisation efforts but they must be accompanied by thorough validation of the studies, calibration of models to assess the impact of incidents (such as through dynamic near and far field modelling and validation of mitigation measures1), and rigorous procedures to ensure the safety of the port, port community and ship crew.

“MPA is committed to decarbonising the maritime sector and international shipping, and looks forward to working with partners to advance this effort in a safe, secure and sustainable manner,” it stated. “We remain open to the use of different alternative fuels which can reduce the maritime industry’s carbon emissions.”