Key Specifications
Voluntary decarbonisation commitments, FuelEU Maritime compliance, charter-mandated reductions
Technical Detail
Why blends matter
Pure biofuel (B100) has storage stability and compatibility issues for many marine engines. Blends up to B30 are generally accepted by engine OEMs without modification. Singapore and Rotterdam offer B24 as commercial standard; B30 requires specific nomination.
Feedstock and sustainability
Biofuel sustainability depends on feedstock. Waste-derived biofuels (used cooking oil methyl ester, UCOME) score better on lifecycle carbon than virgin oilseed-based feedstocks. ISCC-EU certification is the common standard for marine biofuel; FuelEU Maritime requires specific certification categories.
Cost premium
Biofuel blends are more expensive per tonne than straight VLSFO. The premium varies by feedstock and certification; premiums of 30-80% over conventional VLSFO are common. FuelEU Maritime and EU ETS costs partially offset this through compliance value.
Quality and handling
Biofuel blends can have different cold-flow, water pickup, and microbiological characteristics. Tank hygiene becomes more important. Long-term storage should be limited; consumption within a few months of bunkering is advisable.
Where to Bunker Biofuel
Ports in our directory where Biofuel is available as a standard commercial grade:
Frequently Asked Questions
Can my engine run on B24 without modification?
Generally yes — most modern two-stroke and four-stroke marine engines accept blends up to B30 without modification. Always verify with your engine OEM for your specific installation.
Does biofuel count as zero-carbon under regulations?
Certified sustainable biofuels receive reduced or zero carbon intensity scores under FuelEU Maritime and IMO GHG frameworks. EU ETS treats sustainable biofuel combustion emissions as zero. Certification (ISCC-EU, equivalent) is essential to claim this.
Is biofuel the same as marine diesel with veggie oil?
No. Marine biofuel is typically FAME (Fatty Acid Methyl Ester) produced by transesterification, not raw vegetable oil. Raw oils have fundamentally different properties and cannot be used directly.
Where can I get biofuel bunkers?
Singapore, Rotterdam, Antwerp, Algeciras, and an expanding list of other ports. Nomination lead times are typically longer than conventional fuel — 5-10 days is common.