/Reuters Agency
The Japanese trading house Sumitomo Corp announced that it has received a grant from the Singapore Government to develop ammonia as an alternative marine fuel, with the aim of helping to decarbonize the shipping industry.
This exclusive funding will support research and development efforts aimed at enhancing the safety and efficiency of ammonia supply-bunkering in the Port of Singapore, according to a statement from Sumitomo.
The terms of the grant provided by the Maritime and Port Authority of Singapore (MPA) under the Maritime Innovation and Technology Fund (MINT Fund) were not disclosed.
Ammonia is one of several alternative fuels that shipping companies and energy firms are exploring to reduce emissions, although it currently faces challenges related to costs.
Sumitomo plans to conduct an ammonia bunkering demonstration in Singapore in 2027 and will work with the MPA to develop safety protocols, operational guidelines, and emergency response measures.
On the other hand, a consortium led by Keppel Ltd, which includes Keppel, Sumitomo, and Advario Asia Pacific, has been selected by the Energy Market Authority of Singapore (EMA) and the MPA to advance to the next phase of a project studying comprehensive low- or zero-carbon ammonia solutions on Jurong Island, intended for power generation and marine bunkering.
Sumitomo stated that these efforts will contribute to the decarbonization of the shipping industry, while supporting its broader commitment to energy transformation, a key growth area for the company.
