ExxonMobil has signed a memorandum of understanding with asset management firm Keppel Infrastructure to explore developing low-carbon hydrogen and ammonia solutions for commercial and industrial applications in Singapore.

Keppel operates a 1.3GW gas-fired combined-cycle power plant and pipeline network on Jurong Island, a major industrial hub. It has started construction on a 600MW power plant that will initially run on 30pc hydrogen with the capability of being entirely run on the zero-carbon gas, which is due to be completed in H1 2026.

Keppel is also assessing the feasibility of developing a power plant run directly on ammonia.

“Clean hydrogen is one of the most effective decarbonisation strategies, especially for hard-to-abate sectors, like maritime and petrochemical” Lim, Keppel

“Deep decarbonisation of power generation and major industries is a key impetus for countries seeking pathways to net-zero emissions,” says Cindy Lim, CEO of Keppel Infrastructure.

“Globally, clean hydrogen is one of the most effective decarbonisation strategies, especially for hard-to-abate sectors, like maritime and petrochemical. As a forerunner in the energy space, Keppel is pleased to work with ExxonMobil to accelerate the end-to-end development and deployment of ammonia to support industries and Singapore’s sustainability goals,” she adds.

Government agencies the Energy Market Authority and the Maritime and Port Authority opened a call for proposals to build, own and operate low-carbon ammonia power generation and bunkering facilities at Jurong Island last December. The call is due to close this month.

Proposed projects are required to generate a minimum of 50MW of electricity from either direct ammonia combustion or cracking it into hydrogen fuel, as well as at least 100,000t/yr of ammonia bunkering capacity at co-developed import terminals. The projects are also expected to come online by 2027.

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Author: Polly Martin