SIBCON 2026: Decarbonising Shipping Scale Needs Coordinated Effort | Mariner News

Singapore – While pilot projects have proven the technical feasibility of new marine fuels, their commercial viability and broad-scale adoption remain contingent on a synchronized movement of credible demand, supply investment, and supportive policy, delegates at SIBCON 2026 heard.

The opening keynote panel of the second day, “Decarbonising Shipping: From Pilots to Scale,” underscored that while pilots function as “concept cars” demonstrating possibility, they do not inherently confirm commercial viability or scalability.

A critical factor in moving beyond pilot status to investable projects is the rigorous collection of verified emissions data. When emissions data is gathered at the correct points along the supply chain, witnessed, and independently verified, it can be directly tied to commercial or regulatory value, such as a reduction in EU allowances to be surrendered.

Final investment decisions for fuel projects are reached only after risks have been clearly identified, allocated to the most suitable parties, and appropriately priced.

Looking ahead, the prospect of a global regulatory framework to accelerate new fuel uptake appears to be strengthening. The chance of an IMO deal in December is now considered higher than it was six months ago.