GCGF and IBIA Workshop on Alcohol-Based Fuel Pathways for Shipping

Exploring the Future of Marine Fuels

GCGF and the International Bunker Industry Association (IBIA) convened a half-day workshop on Alcohol-Based Fuel Pathways for Shipping during the Singapore Maritime Week 2026. This event took place on 23 April 2026 at the Conrad Singapore Marina Bay. It gathered a diverse group of stakeholders from across the maritime fuel value chain. Participants included fuel producers, traders, shipowners, bunkering agents, storage providers, port authorities, classification societies, research institutions, certification bodies, technology providers, and compliance platforms.

Focus on Practical Steps

The session focused on the practical steps needed to support the adoption of ethanol and methanol as marine fuels. Key topics included fuel supply, infrastructure readiness, bunkering operations, safety frameworks, standards, training, regulatory compliance, and commercial deployment pathways. A keynote address by the Maritime and Port Authority of Singapore emphasized Singapore’s role in scaling next-generation marine fuels. Ethanol was highlighted as an advancing biofuel pathway for maritime adoption.

Collaboration with NTU MESD

The workshop also marked GCGF’s collaboration with NTU MESD on a pilot study to evaluate ethanol’s feasibility as a sustainable marine fuel. This study, jointly led by MESD and GCGF, will examine engine performance, safe bunkering operations, and techno-economic feasibility. Such research is crucial for understanding how we can effectively integrate ethanol into our existing systems.

Findings from Bureau Veritas

Bureau Veritas Marine & Offshore presented findings from its study with GCGF on ethanol’s role in shipping’s low-carbon transition. This study explores various aspects, including ethanol’s global supply availability, scalability, and compatibility with existing infrastructure and methanol-ready systems. It also covers engine technology developments and regulatory progress. These insights are vital for stakeholders looking to navigate the complexities of transitioning to low-carbon fuels.

Panel Discussion Insights

A moderated panel discussion brought together representatives from ABS, Green Marine, Marquis, NTU MESD, Nanolumi, OSM Thome, Roland Berger, and WinGD. They discussed infrastructure readiness and the pathway toward scalable ethanol bunkering. The exchange of ideas during this session highlighted the collaborative efforts needed to advance the maritime sector towards net-zero emissions.

The Importance of a Multi-Fuel Approach

As the maritime sector advances towards net-zero, the workshop reinforced the importance of a multi-fuel approach. Alcohol-based fuels are emerging as practical pathways within the future marine fuel mix. By diversifying our fuel sources, we can enhance resilience and adaptability in the face of changing regulatory and environmental landscapes.

Download Workshop Materials

Ethanol as a Marine Fuel Market Readiness slides presented at the workshop is available for your download.

Ethanol_as_a_Marine_Fuel_SMW_and_IBIA_2026.pdf

Download PDF • 2.48MB

Conclusion

In conclusion, the workshop on Alcohol-Based Fuel Pathways for Shipping was a significant step forward in our journey towards sustainable maritime fuels. By fostering collaboration among key stakeholders, we can pave the way for effective green energy policies and roadmaps. This will ultimately support the widespread adoption of biofuels, contributing to a low-carbon world.