Chimbusco Pan Nation Petro-Chemical (CPN) and Orient Overseas Container Line (OOCL), both based in Hong Kong, have completed the city’s first B30 marine biofuel bunkering operation. On May 7, 2025, an OOCL-owned containership was supplied with ISCC-EU certified B30 biofuel, a blend of 70% very low sulfur fuel oil (VLSFO) or high sulfur fuel oil (HSFO) and 30% used cooking oil methyl ester (UCOME).

CPN noted that this was the first B30 biofuel supply for both Hong Kong and OOCL. The shipping company has been pursuing sustainable practices, including the adoption of vessels powered by eco-friendly energy sources, to reduce emissions. This milestone follows CPN’s completion of Hong Kong’s largest B24 biofuel delivery in March 2025.

The International Maritime Organization’s Marine Environment Protection Committee (MEPC 83), held in early April 2025, updated guidelines to allow conventional barge fleets to carry up to 30% biofuel blends. The B30 blend is estimated to reduce carbon emissions by up to 25%, compared to a 20% reduction with B24. In February 2025, the IMO’s subcommittee on pollution prevention and response approved a circular, later endorsed at MEPC 83, enabling bunker ships certified as oil tankers to transport 30% biofuel blends.

The maritime industry is increasingly exploring biofuels to meet sustainability goals. In March 2025, the Maritime and Port Authority of Singapore (MPA) announced that bunker ships under its flag can carry up to B30 blends, up from a previous limit of B25, without requiring separate approval. While blends up to B50 are commercially available, trials for higher concentrations, such as B100, are ongoing.

In October 2024, a collaborative effort was launched in Singapore involving China Classification Society (CCS), Weichai Singapore, Nanyang Technological University’s Marine Energy and Sustainability Research Department (MESD), and Pinnacle Marine. They initiated a 1,000-hour trial of B100 biofuel in Singaporean waters to evaluate its performance.

CPN emphasized the significance of the B30 bunkering, stating: “The fuel supply was the first for both Hong Kong and Orient Overseas Container Line, which has been actively seeking sustainable solutions for its operations.” This development underscores Hong Kong’s role in advancing cleaner marine fuels and aligns with global efforts to reduce the environmental impact of shipping through innovative fuel solutions.

The successful B30 bunkering operation reflects growing industry commitment to sustainable energy practices, with Hong Kong and Singapore emerging as key hubs for biofuel adoption in maritime transport.

by offshore energy