ExxonMobil: HDME 50 is Attracting Global Interest

Iain White, field marketing manager at ExxonMobil Marine Fuels & Lubricants

ExxonMobil's recently introduced Premium Heavy Distillate Marine ECA 50 (HDME 50) fuel is attracting significant global interest, Iain White, field marketing manager at ExxonMobil Marine Fuels & Lubricants, has told Ship & Bunker.

"Everyone is starting to talk about it. Compared to other product launches there has been enormous interest," he said.

"We've had direct interest from all across the world, not only in Europe but also in the U.S. and in particular Asia for vessels trading into Europe. If we were able to supply it in there, we would sell it."

When it was launched in July, ExxonMobil described HDME 50 as a "new category" of fuel that handles onboard like HFO, but is compliant with the 0.10 percent sulfur cap that takes effect in Emissions Control Areas (ECAs) from January 1, 2015.

HDME 50 is currently only available from ExxonMobil's Antwerp refinery, but White says the company is looking to expand its supply locations.

"Meeting the ECA demand is a new challenge and a new opportunity," he said.

"We are certainly reviewing other refineries and there will be announcements in the future. The refineries are evaluating different ways of making fuel that we haven't thought about before."

Even through the new ECA rules are some months off, White said earlier adopters are already buying the product.

"I obviously can't talk about specific sales numbers, but if we could get it to 20 ports, it would sell," he said.

HDME 50 is available exclusively at ExxonMobil's Antwerp refinery a spot or contract basis for delivery by barge throughout the region.

In July, White discussed the characteristics and benefits HDME 50 with Ship & Bunker.