GEORGE TOWN: Penang Port Sdn Bhd has saved over three per cent or RM500,000 in fuel consumption over 10 months, thanks to its partnership with Shell Malaysia.
The two companies today said by pioneering a technical, onboard trial of 'Shell FuelSave Diesel', Penang Port was able to reduce maintenance and downtime, while simultaneously slashing its carbon dioxide emissions.
The collaboration was touted as the first marine application of Shell's FuelSave Diesel in Asia, and the second in the world.
Shell FuelSave Diesel is an advanced formulation from Shell, developed through years of research and testing, both in laboratory and field conditions.
It is specially-designed to improve an engine's operating efficiency, by helping to keep injector nozzles clean and improve combustion, which in turn are said to help in saving fuel.
"The results have been impressive, with Penang Port having achieved a savings of more than three per cent in fuel consumption, increased their service intervals from 3 months to 0 months, reduced maintenance and downtime, reduced black smoke and carbon deposits, and cut carbon dioxide emissions by approximately 540 metric tons over 10 months," the companies said in a joint statement.
Present at a Shell FuelSave Diesel testimonial handover ceremony this evening were Penang Port Sdn Bhd chief operating officer Sasedharan Vasudevan and Shell Malaysia Trading Sdn Bhd director Borhan Zainal.
Sasedharan in his speech said the result of the collaboration was in sync with realising the government's move of promoting greener ports.
"It augurs well with our future and expansion plans," he said.
Sasedharan said that Penang Port utilises 4.5 million litres of fuel for its seven ferries.
"We stand to realise more savings over time," he added.
"For 125 years, Shell has been committed to delivering innovative solutions to fuel Malaysian progress," said Borhan.
"The Penang ferries are a national icon and I am proud and humbled that we were able to play a part in its continuing legacy. Through innovation and collaboration, we have been able to touch the lives of the thousands of people who rely on these ferries on a daily basis," he added.