Biofuel bunker tanker gets the go-ahead
The certification allows the Whitchampion to perform onboard blending of biofuels with petroleum distillates and residual fuel oils
(Source: Whitaker)
UK-based bunker supplier, John H. Whitaker (Tankers) Limited, has been certified by Lloyd’s Register (LR) for its tanker, Whitchampion, to load, carry, and blend fatty acid methyl esters (FAME B100). The certification, on behalf of the Isle of Man Flag Administration, ensures compliance with the IBC Code and Marpol Annex II regulations.
The tanker is thought to be the first certification of this type. It will be joined by a second Whitaker tanker, Whitchallenger, which will undergo a similar certification process later this year.
The development will enable Whitchampion to carry out blending on biofuels with petroleum distillates and residual fuel oils. To date, bunker tankers certified under Marpol Annex I are limited to carrying blends no more than 30% FAME. Oil fuels with higher bio-content fall under the International Bulk Chemical Code and Marpol Annex II, typically requiring full chemical tanker status.
LR’s principal specialist, Fuels and Emissions, Tim Wilson, commented: “This certification demonstrates a credible and commercially viable route for existing bunker tankers to participate in the energy transition. It sets a clear blueprint for others to follow, enabling owners to consider the possibility of adapting existing bunker tankers for sustainable fuel delivery without resorting to prohibitively expensive conversions or replacement with a chemical tanker.”
