Coastal Sustainability Alliance Signs Key LOIs and Showcases

The Coastal Sustainability Alliance (CSA), spearheaded by Kuok Maritime Group (KMG), made significant strides in sustainable shipping during the Accelerating Digitalization and Decarbonization Conference at Singapore Maritime Week (SMW) 2025. On the second day of the event, CSA signed two pivotal Letters of Intent (LOIs) aimed at enhancing the adoption of electric vessels and establishing a robust marine charging infrastructure. These initiatives are set to revolutionize Singapore’s coastal logistics ecosystem, aligning with global decarbonization goals.

Innovative “Milk Run” Trial for E-Supply Boats

KMG has partnered with seven prominent ship agencies and one chandler to launch a year-long trial utilizing the PXO E-Supply Boat, Voltai. This initiative, known as the “milk run,” will focus on optimizing delivery routes to seagoing vessels, thereby enhancing operational efficiency. The participating agencies include GAC Singapore, Horizon Shipping Agencies, Inchcape Shipping Services, Johnasia Shipping, RMS Marine & Offshore Service, Sinoda Shipping Agency, and Wilhelmsen Port Services.

Ecochlor Announces CCS Letter of Intent with Diana Shipping and Sinotech

The trial aims to address the increasing pressure on merchant shipowners to minimize Scope 3 emissions. Each trip made by the E-Supply Boat is projected to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by 0.5 metric tons per merchant ship arrival at the Port of Singapore. With an estimated 600 daily trips by conventional supply boats, the electrification of marine logistics could lead to a monthly reduction of approximately 9,000 metric tons of GHG emissions. The insights gained from this trial will be instrumental in shaping the future development of PXO E-Supply Boats, ensuring they meet industry demands while contributing to Singapore’s decarbonization objectives.

Developing a Comprehensive Charging Infrastructure

In a complementary effort, KMG has also signed an LOI with several Singaporean and international companies, including BeeCharge Innovation Group, Jurong Port, Pyxis, RExus Bioenergy, SP Mobility, and Wilhelmsen Ships Service. This partnership aims to establish a multi-modal and multi-site marine charging infrastructure to support the Voltai during the “milk run” trial. The infrastructure will include shore-based charging stations at key waterfront locations and mobile solar-powered charging solutions for on-demand needs.

By adhering to a common technical standard, this charging network is expected to significantly accelerate Singapore’s transition to greener maritime operations. Efficient charging turnaround times for electric vessels will minimize operational downtime, enhancing the overall effectiveness of the logistics chain. Mr. Tan Thai Yong, Managing Director and CEO of PaxOcean Group and Chairperson of CSA, emphasized that this collaboration marks a transformative shift in maritime logistics, moving away from traditional point-to-point operations towards more sustainable practices.

As part of SMW 2025, the public will have the opportunity to explore the PXO E-Supply Boat Voltai, which is recognized as Singapore’s largest electric supply boat. With four times the cargo capacity of conventional vessels, the Voltai represents a significant advancement in sustainable maritime logistics. Visitors will learn about its zero-emission propulsion system and advanced energy storage capabilities, showcasing how this vessel can operate efficiently while reducing its carbon footprint.