Singapore 2024 — the clearest signal we have
Singapore sold a record 54.92 million tonnes of bunkers in 2024. Of that, 1.34 million tonnes were alternative fuels — roughly double the 2023 figure, but still only around 2.4% of the total. Here is the breakdown:
| Fuel | 2024 volume | Share of alt-fuel |
|---|---|---|
| Biofuel blends (bio-VLSFO) | ~880,000 t | ~66% |
| LNG | ~460,000 t | ~34% |
| Methanol | ~1,626 t | <1% |
| Ammonia | ~9.7 t | trace |
Source: Maritime and Port Authority of Singapore (MPA), full-year 2024. Volumes approximate.
What the mix tells you
Biofuel is the here-and-now option
Two-thirds of alternative-fuel volume is biofuel blends — typically B24 (24% FAME) dropped into VLSFO. The reason is simple: it needs no new engine, no new tank, and it counts under EU rules. For most operators wanting a lower-carbon tonne today, this is the practical route.
LNG is established, not experimental
LNG is a third of the volume and backed by a real fleet of LNG-capable ships and bunker vessels. It cuts CO₂ and eliminates sulphur, though methane slip tempers the well-to-wake benefit.
Methanol and ammonia are still first steps
Methanol volumes are tiny and ammonia is a rounding error — but both crossed from zero to first commercial bunkerings, and the newbuilding orderbook (especially for methanol) points to real growth later this decade. Today they are proof-of-concept, not supply you can rely on at scale.
What it means for buyers
If a charter or a compliance plan calls for lower-carbon fuel now, biofuel blends are the answer that is actually available and documentable across hubs; LNG where the ship supports it. Methanol and ammonia are worth tracking for the late 2020s but not yet plannable. This is the same signal the IMO Net-Zero Framework and CII send: start with the fuels that exist. Seven Ocean can confirm biofuel blend availability and certification at the ports where you bunker.
Very small. At Singapore in 2024, alternative fuels were about 1.34 million tonnes out of 54.92 million — roughly 2.4% — though that had doubled year on year. Biofuel blends (bio-VLSFO, typically B24). They are drop-in, need no engine modification, and made up about two-thirds of Singapore's alternative-fuel sales in 2024. LNG is next, where the ship is LNG-capable. Only in trials. Methanol volumes are tiny and ammonia is a trace, though both have passed first commercial bunkerings and have a growing newbuilding orderbook. Neither is dependable supply at scale today.Frequently Asked Questions
What share of marine fuel is alternative fuel today?
Which alternative fuel is most available now?
Are methanol and ammonia bunker fuels available yet?