MPA and Wärtsilä renew maritime decarbonization and digitalization partnership
As part of its renewed partnership with the Maritime and Port Authority of Singapore (MPA), Wärtsilä will introduce the methanol power and control (PAC) simulation model in partnership with the Maritime Energy Training Facility (METF) and Wavelink Maritime Institute. Overall, the renewed partnership will focus on the introduction of next-generation alternative fuels, the optimization of digital port operations and the development of future maritime talent.
The PAC simulation model has been designed to help maritime professionals acquire the knowledge and skills needed to operate methanol-powered vessels safely and efficiently. Wavelink Maritime Institute will reportedly be the first MPA-accredited training partner to use this simulation model. Wärtsilä will also introduce the ammonia PAC simulation model in early 2026 to enhance the industry’s capabilities to handle and operate ammonia-powered vessels.
Research and development with MarineTech Ecosystem
MPA and Wärtsilä will collaborate with companies in Singapore’s MarineTech ecosystem to explore research and development (R&D) projects that aim to lower the cost of adopting new technologies. These projects will include the methanol and ammonia PAC simulation models, plume modeling to enhance safety assessment and improvements to handle low- and zero-emission maritime fuels. The goal is to enhance safety procedures for the handling, storage and operation of these fuels while ensuring the industry’s readiness for new fuel technologies.
Both partners will also work with other members of the industry to identify emerging skills needed for methanol- and ammonia-powered engine operations. Training curricula will be co-developed using advanced technologies and simulation models to improve effectiveness.
Fuel training and simulation technical conference
Wärtsilä will host a simulation user conference on fuel training and simulation in June 2025. The conference will feature Wärtsilä experts sharing insights on the latest advances in simulations and training related to renewable fuels and their applications in the maritime industry. Topics will include competency and capability development for alternative fuels and the future of maritime decarbonization.
Teo Eng Dih, chief executive of MPA, said, “As a leading bunkering hub transitioning toward a multifuel future, our partnership with Wärtsilä will help unlock the potential of low- and zero-emission maritime fuels. This partnership will be an action-focused effort to ensure a safe and efficient bunkering environment in Singapore.”
Håkan Agnevall, president and CEO of Wärtsilä, added, “As the world’s busiest transshipment port and largest bunkering hub, Singapore has an important role to play in shipping’s journey toward net zero. That’s why we are proud to continue fostering our partnership with MPA on accelerating this transition. The renewal of our MoU and the launch of the methanol PAC simulation model are significant steps toward achieving our shared goals of decarbonization and digitalization in the maritime sector.”
In related news, the MPA recently launched an expression of interest (EoI) to explore scalable solutions for sea-based liquefied natural gas (LNG) reloading to complement the existing onshore LNG bunkering storage and jetty capacities and the supply of e/bio-methane as marine fuel in the Port of Singapore. Proposals must be submitted by February 28, 2025, 1:00pm (Singapore time). Click here to read the full story.
