SK Incheon Petrochem has begun supplying bio-based marine fuel, B30, in response to greenhouse gas (GHG) reduction policies in the shipping industry. B30 contains 30% bio-based raw materials supplied by JC Chemical with 70% SK Incheon Petrochem’s Straight Run Fuel Oil (SRFO).
The company said the B30 blended marine fuel offers approximately 25% carbon reduction compared to conventional marine fuel. It was developed to meet the international standards set by ISO 8217, following joint research with SK Innovation’s Institute of Environmental Science & Technology. The company has received certification by International Sustainability and Carbon Certification (ISCC EU). Among the biomaterials listed in the company’s certifications are used cooking oil, organic material solid waste and waste plastics.
The International Maritime Organization (IMO) has set a target to reduce GHG emissions from marine fuels by 21% by 2030 compared to 2008 levels. Ships unable to meet these standards will incur proportional costs based on their emissions. This mid-term measure was approved during the 83rd Marine Environment Protection Committee (MEPC) meeting held on April 11.
SK Incheon Petrochem’s SRFO is refined from ultra-light crude oil in a single process without cracking (decomposition). Unlike blended products made from multiple raw materials, the company said, SRFO boasts higher energy output, enhanced safety, and fewer impurities, contributing to improved fuel efficiency and reduced maintenance costs for ships. The company said the blending of SRFO with biofuel for marine fuel is the first of its kind in South Korea.
SK Incheon Petrochem plans to leverage its environmental and quality competitiveness to expand its footprint in the global marine fuel market, beginning with the West Sea region of Korea.
“We aim to provide next-generation fuel that combines environmental benefits with superior quality to domestic and international shipping companies through a stable supply system,” said Yoon Young-ho, Head of B2B Business Office at SK Incheon Petrochem. “We expect that biofuel-blended marine fuel will establish itself as a sustainable energy transition model for the shipping industry to address greenhouse gas regulations.”
