Chevron has chartered its inaugural hybrid electric bunker tanker, marking a significant milestone in the company’s commitment to sustainable maritime operations. The tanker, which docked at Chevron’s Singapore facilities last summer, aims to provide Chevron’s maritime customers in the region with fuel while reducing emissions and costs.

Nayab Karimi, the trading manager for fuels in Asia Pacific at Chevron, emphasised the vessel’s potential to consume approximately 20 percent less fuel compared to conventional tankers, underscoring Chevron’s dedication to delivering lower carbon emissions and higher returns.

Jennifer Chao, Chevron’s Asia Pacific commercial marine manager, highlighted the hybrid tanker’s role in assessing the broader adoption of hybrid vessels. She stated, “We’re looking for opportunities like this to understand new technologies, test capabilities, and collect data to determine if there is broader applicability for our global operations.”

Explaining the functionality of the hybrid vessel, Chao likened it to a hybrid electric car, with an electric power system complementing the conventional fuel engine. The vessel utilises electricity during periods of high consumption to reduce fuel usage, demonstrating Chevron’s commitment to exploring innovative solutions for sustainable shipping.

Varun Kohli, Chevron’s term charterer in Asia Pacific, acknowledged the current limitations of fully electric operation for barges due to technological constraints, including the size and efficiency of batteries. However, he expressed optimism about future advancements in battery technology, foreseeing a time when bunker tankers could operate entirely on batteries.

Chevron’s investment in the hybrid electric bunker tanker underscores its proactive approach to embracing sustainable practices in maritime operations while driving innovation in the industry.

For more information visit www.chevron.com

2 April 2024