In the UK, Whitaker Tankers’ Whitchampion became the first bunker tanker certified by Lloyd’s Register under IBC Code and MARPOL Annex II to load, carry, and blend 100% Fatty Acid Methyl Esters onboard in UK waters, enabled by a Tri-Partite Agreement with the Isle of Man Flag Administration and the UK Maritime and Coastguard Agency.
This certification allows Whitchampion to blend biofuels with petroleum-based fuels directly onboard, bypassing previous IMO limits that restricted Annex I bunker tankers to blends under 30% FAME. The vessel now holds chemical certification without conversion to full chemical tanker status.
LR conducted a Gap Analysis and Risk Assessment to meet IBC Code standards, secured waivers, and delivered dedicated crew training for safe handling.
“This certification demonstrates a credible and commercially viable route for existing bunker tankers to participate in the energy transition,” said Tim Wilson, Principal Specialist Fuels and Emissions at LR.
Peter Howard, Technical Director at Whitaker Tankers, added, “We’re proud to lead the way in this space with Whitchampion and look forward to progressing a similar certification with LR for her sister ship Whitchallenger later this year.”
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Category: Sustainable Marine Fuels
