We are converting to new fuels

PILLAR 3

New Fuels

Berge Bulk has committed to building and operating a zero-emissions vessel by 2030 and achieving zero emissions fleetwide by 2050. To achieve this, we must replace fossil fuel with new fuels.

As members of the Getting to Zero Coalition and signatories to The Call to Action for Shipping Decarbonisation, we call on governments to work together with the industry to deliver the policies and investments needed to reach critical tipping points in decarbonising global supply chains and the global economy.

Biofuel

One fuel type that we have been extensively testing is biofuel. The technology uses vegetable oil, animal fat, tallow and waste cooking oil from restaurants and industrial kitchens, mixed with fossil fuel to produce biofuel. Biofuel has a similar calorific value to bunker fuel but produces lower sulphur and carbon emissions.

While it is not a zero-carbon fuel source, biofuel is definitively a lower emissions alternative than the bunker fuels used in the maritime industry today. It is, therefore, a positive step in the right direction as the industry continues to work together toward scaling a truly zero-carbon fuel.

Whilst we hope to see greater availability and affordability of biofuel in the future, Berge Bulk is committed to continuing conversations with various organisations to find the ideal partner.

Ammonia

Green ammonia is a promising zero carbon fuel for the future of the shipping industry.

Two Ammonia Fuelled Vessels Ordered

Steady progress has been made in developing ammonia engines and the logistics of ammonia bunkering. With decarbonisation being of utmost importance, Berge Bulk are proud to have recently ordered two dual fuel ammonia vessels — due to be delivered in 2028.

We are helping to shape the roadmap from today’s liquid fuel ships to tomorrow’s ammonia-powered ships.

Methanol

While methanol is not a zero-carbon fuel using today’s standard production methods, it is a fuel that is known, available, and the technologies for burning it already exist. The bunkering procedures for methanol are familiar, and the initial investments are lower than other alternative fuels. With rapid developments in green and blue methanol, this fuel is a valid candidate for supporting Berge Bulk’s decarbonisation goals.

Berge Bulk is actively engaged in discussions with key players in areas of methanol fuel production, technology, and regulation.

Nuclear

Berge Bulk is also investing in various companies working to commercialise the use of thorium molten salt reactors (MSRs) as a new wave of clean energy generators for the maritime industry.

The potential of MSRs in shipping could play a significant role in meeting the industry’s 2050 decarbonisation targets. Participation in projects like these ensures that Berge Bulk stays at the forefront of developments in zero-carbon future fuels as they mature and develop.