Seatrium Limited and the Agency for Science, Technology and Research (A*STAR) have signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) to explore research opportunities in new energies and artificial intelligence (AI) to develop innovative products and engineering solutions for the Offshore and Marine (O&M) sector.
The collaboration combines Seatrium’s insights into trends and opportunities within the O&M sector with the research capabilities of A*STAR and its national platforms, such as the Technology Centre for Offshore and Marine, Singapore (TCOMS).
The two organisations plan to boost the O&M sector’s pivot to new energies efficiently and reliably, and support the global transition to a low-carbon economy.
The collaboration will also streamline product development and manufacturing processes, and promote innovation and sustainability in Seatrium’s operations through machine learning, manufacturing process technologies and digital solutions.
New energies, the first focus areas of the MOU, includes the exploration of hydrogen and ammonia solutions, specifically tailored for offshore and marine applications.
A*STAR and Seatrium were part of Singapore’s first ammonia fuel trial on the Fortescue Green Pioneer, the world’s first use of ammonia as a marine fuel in a dual-fuelled ammonia-powered vessel. A*STAR contributed to the development of an ammonia plume model for safety and environmental impact assessment, while Seatrium was responsible for the installation of the vessel’s fuel system and safety features.
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Both organisations will now focus on establishing a sustainable ammonia supply chain and addressing bunkering, transportation, and storage challenges. Coupled with carbon capture technologies, Seatrium's suite of product solutions aims to provide sustainable energy solutions for the offshore and marine sector.
The other focus area of the MOU is AI, and the partnership will leverage AI to explore innovative solutions in engineering processes, operational efficiency, and decision-making across project lifecycles.
This includes the planned development of Large Language Models (LLMs) to improve vessel design and validation turnaround by automating and streamlining parts of the process. AI will be used to automate work site inspection and surveillance for improved operational efficiency.
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Since 2008, Seatrium’s predecessors — Sembcorp Marine and Keppel O&M — and A*STAR have worked on research projects such as green shipping, digital design, automation, Internet of Things (IoT) and advanced manufacturing.
Seatrium CEO Chris Ong says: “The collaborative efforts between Seatrium and A*STAR are geared towards accelerating the energy transition and maritime decarbonisation. By combining our knowledge and pushing boundaries, we aim to develop advanced energy solutions that will help the industry adopt renewable sources more quickly. Through innovation, research, and sustainable practices, we are focused on minimising carbon emissions, improving operational efficiency, and promoting cleaner energy. We are committed to making a positive impact and playing a vital role in Singapore's sustainable O&M sector with the support of our partners, stakeholders, and customers.”
Frederick Chew, CEO of A*STAR, adds: “Building on our previous successful collaboration programmes in green shipping, digital design and advanced manufacturing, this latest collaboration in new energies and AI furthers Seatrium and A*STAR’s shared vision of developing more smart and sustainable solutions for the O&M sector. I look forward to programme outcomes that will contribute substantively to Seatrium’s and Singapore’s economic and sustainability goals.”
Shares in Seatrium closed unchanged at 7.8 cents on April 16.
