Port of Fujairah prepares for IMO 2020

Port of Fujairah prepares for IMO 2020


The implementation date of the new sulphur content rules on bunker fuel announced by the International Marine Organization (IMO) is approaching quickly. To avoid being caught off guard the Port of Fujairah asked Systems Navigator to perform a thorough IMO 2020 scan of Fujairah’s port logistics. 

Starting January 1, 2020, higher-sulphur fuels need to be replaced by lower-sulphur fuels, which will have an impact on port operations. Alternatively, the vessel operators can install expensive scrubbers to filter sulphur from (high-sulphur) fuel oil. Since scrubber equipment alone can cost €1-5m, it is expected that there will be a switch in demand from high-sulphur fuel oil to (ultra) low-sulphur fuel oil or marine gasoil. 

Lower-sulphur products, such as marine gasoil, have a different viscosity than higher-sulphur products, such as high-sulphur fuel oil. As lower-sulphur fuels are a larger part of the Port’s throughput the product parcels sizes and fleet mix calling at the port will change as well when IMO 2020 regulations take effect. Many ports and terminals are unaware of the implications of these changes and are not prepared for the moment the new rules come into effect, which may result in longer ship waiting times and the need to invest in new infrastructure.

To accommodate for IMO 2020 the project team analysed and advised on a number of infrastructure alterations, which will be implemented before January 1, 2020. These modifications guarantee a high level of service without weakening the existing port’s ship berthing flexibility. Systems Navigator analysed the Port’s existing process times and recommended new target times in order to further improve the port performance. 

For more information visit: www.systemsnavigator.com

7th November 2018

 

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