Altera Infrastructure, a proud Silver Sponsor at this year’s Singapore Norway Innovation Conference (SNIC) 2024, will present groundbreaking developments in carbon capture and storage (CCS) technology. Ronald C.Y. Chew, New Business Development Lead for CCS at Altera, will share key insights on how CCS can transform the maritime sector. Ahead of the conference, we had the opportunity to speak with Ronald about the future of CCS, its challenges, and the opportunities it presents for maritime decarbonization.
A Revolution in Maritime Sustainability
As shipping accelerates efforts to reduce emissions, CCS technology is proving to be a vital tool. In Southeast Asia, where maritime trade is crucial, green shipping is quickly becoming a necessity. Ronald Chew states, “Green shipping and supply chain management are critical for Southeast Asia’s decarbonization. Cleaner fuels, energy efficiency, and route optimization can significantly cut emissions.”
Southeast Asia’s position between the Indian and Pacific Oceans makes it a key player in global shipping. However, the region faces challenges due to limited cross-border maritime infrastructure. Altera Infrastructure’s Stella Maris value chain, which transports liquefied CO₂ via cargo ships, offers a flexible, cost-effective solution. This method is more adaptable than traditional pipeline systems, particularly over longer distances.
“Onboard CCS bridges the gap,” says Chew. “It allows ships to use fossil fuels while alternative energy sources are being developed.”
Singapore’s Role as a Hub for CCS Commercialization
As a global maritime hub, Singapore’s infrastructure and business-friendly environment offer many opportunities for CCS solutions. Altera Infrastructure plans to leverage Singapore’s strong trade networks to scale CCS across Southeast Asia.
“Singapore’s strategic location and innovation ecosystem make it a perfect base for scaling CCS in the region,” says Chew. “We see it as a critical player in our CCS growth strategy.”
Overcoming the Challenges of Scaling CCS
Scaling CCS technologies involves overcoming significant infrastructure challenges. Key ports worldwide must facilitate CO₂ transfer for storage or industrial use. To address these challenges, Altera is working with stakeholders through innovative pilot projects. The Green Shipping Programme explores the feasibility of installing CCS systems on ships, making them adaptable to different sizes and fuel types.
“Collaboration between the maritime sector and land-based infrastructure operators is essential,” Chew emphasizes. “Our Stella Maris project focuses on flexible solutions that can be scaled globally.”
Norway and Singapore: A Strong CCS Partnership
Norway has long been a leader in CCS technology, with the Sleipner CCS project setting the global standard. Chew believes the partnership between Norway and Singapore holds great potential for furthering CCS development, especially as Singapore works to reduce emissions.
“Norway’s expertise in CCS offers valuable lessons for Southeast Asia,” says Chew. “SNIC 2024 provides an ideal platform for strengthening collaboration between Norwegian and Singaporean businesses.”
Altera’s Vision for a Sustainable Future
Looking ahead, Altera Infrastructure’s Stella Maris CCS project will play a key role in CO₂ storage. The Havstjerne reservoir in the North Sea will offer a shared infrastructure that collects CO₂ from ports and stores it efficiently, ensuring long-term sustainability.
“The volumes of CO₂ we’ll need to manage in the coming years will be immense,” notes Chew. “Altera is committed to providing sustainable, scalable solutions to meet this challenge.”
Join us at SNIC 2024 to learn how Altera Infrastructure’s innovations in carbon capture and storage are shaping the future of maritime sustainability. Hear directly from industry leaders like Ronald C.Y. Chew. Don’t miss this opportunity to explore how CCS can transform the sector.
Register today and be part of this must-attend event for maritime and energy professionals.