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Sumitomo, a Japanese company, wins a Singapore grant for developing ammonia as marin fuel

Sumitomo Corp, a Japanese trading company, announced on Monday that it had been granted a grant by the Singapore government to develop ammonia to be used as a marine fuel alternative to decarbonise shipping.

Sumitomo stated in a press release that this exclusive funding would support research and development efforts to enhance the safety and efficiency of ammonia supply, or ammonia bunkering, at Singapore's Port.

The Maritime Innovation and Technology Fund of Singapore (MINT Fund) was used to award the grant. However, the MPA did not reveal the details of the grant.

MPA didn't immediately respond to an 'ask for comment.

Ammonia, a fuel alternative that is being explored by shippers and electric companies to reduce emissions, has a high cost.

Sumitomo will demonstrate ammonia bunkering at a Singapore demonstration in 2027. It will also work with MPA on safety protocols, operational guides, and emergency response plans.

Separately, a Keppel Ltd consortium, which includes Sumitomo, Advario Asia Pacific and Keppel Ltd has been selected by Singapore’s Energy Market Authority (EMA), and the MPA, to move to the next stage of a study to examine the end-toend low-carbon or zero-carbon solutions for ammonia bunkering and power generation on Jurong Island.

Sumitomo stated that these efforts would contribute to the decarbonisation of the shipping industry while supporting the company's broader commitment to the energy transformation as a key area for growth. (Reporting by Yuka Obayashi; Editing by Harikrishnan Nair)

(source: Reuters)