Use of Biofuel and its Blend as fuel on board Indian Flagged Ships

Applicable to: All sea going Indian Ships registered under MS Act 1958 and bunker suppliers registered with Government of India

Effective Date: 29.08.2022

Superseded Circulars: None

Key Changes and Requirements

Biofuel blends can be used on Indian ships, subject to certain conditions. Bunker suppliers must meet specific requirements.

Biofuel Manufacture/Import: Must comply with National Policy on Biofuels 2018
Proof of Sustainability: Bunker suppliers must submit PoS for biofuels, bio-liquids, and biomass fuels
Carbon Content Certificate: Bunker supplier must issue a certificate indicating carbon content of biofuel blend
Additional Requirements: Suppliers must ensure bunkers meet relevant specifications, maintain quality control, and provide necessary documentation

Ships must conduct risk analysis, implement operational procedures, and maintain records related to biofuel blend usage.

Risk Analysis: Vessel-specific risk analysis must be carried out for biofuel blend use
Operational Procedures: Shipboard operational procedure must be provided and followed
Record Keeping: Records of incidents and crew familiarization must be maintained

Biofuel blends of up to 30% by volume are allowed, with certain exceptions and case-by-case considerations.

Blend Limit: Blend of not more than 30% by volume of biofuel is allowed, subject to no change in NOx affecting components or settings
Exceptions: Blends requiring changes to NOx affecting components or settings will be considered case by case

II/4

Biofuel blends of up to 30% by volume are allowed, subject to meeting specific requirements and conditions

Important Note

Biofuel blends must not be used for emergency equipment such as lifeboat engines, emergency generators, and emergency fire pumps

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