ExxonMobil trials FAME-based marine biofuel oil in Rotterdam

ExxonMobil has conducted successful sea trials of its inaugural 0.5% sulphur residual-based biofuel oil, which contains second generation waste-based fatty acid methyl esters (FAME) and can cut CO2 emissions by up to 40%. The trials were conducted in collaboration with Stena Bulk in Rotterdam. The fuel can be used in unmodified marine applications and is expected to support the International Maritime Organization’s shipping emissions targets. The trial included evaluating on-board storage, treatment and handling. The biofuel was used in engines and on-board machinery. The trial was an important step towards supplying low-emission fuel to meet customer demand, said ExxonMobil.

ExxonMobil successfully trials first marine biofuel oil

ExxonMobil has completed a successful sea trial of the company’s first marine biofuel oil with shipping company Stena Bulk bunkered in the port of Rotterdam.

The marine biofuel oil is a 0.50% sulphur residual-based fuel (VLSFO) processed with a second generation waste-based FAME component - and will be available later this year – initially in Rotterdam - before wider launch across the ExxonMobil port network.

The trial demonstrated that the marine biofuel oil, which can provide a CO2 emission reduction of up to 40% compared with conventional marine fuel, can be used in a relevant marine application without modification.

This also supports the International Maritime Organisation’s ambition to reduce total annual emissions from international shipping by 2050.

“With new marine fuels coming to market recently, the need for quality fuels that are both reliable and ISO compliant has never been greater,” said Cowan Lee, Marine Fuels marketing manager at ExxonMobil. “ExxonMobil’s new marine bio fuel oil meets that growing need as it has been extensively tested, is sulphur compliant and can make a significant contribution in helping operators reduce their CO2 emissions.”

He added: “As operators face increasingly stringent regulations and significant pressure from customers to demonstrate their commitment to reducing GHG emissions, this is an important next step in providing the lower-emissions fuels that operators want and need.”

The Stena Bulk sea trial was carried out while the vessel was in commercial operation. The trial included evaluation of on-board storage, handling, and treatment and the fuel was consumed in engines and other machinery on-board.

“We believe biofuels have an important role to play in accelerating the reduction of greenhouse gas emissions in shipping," said Erik Hånell, president and CEO of Stena Bulk.