Energy company Repsol has entered the low-carbon marine fuel market at the Port of Algeciras, launching the commercial supply of co-processed marine fuels containing renewable content, according to Ship & Bunker.
The move coincides with the inaugural commercial voyage of Repsol’s newly chartered bunkering vessel, the Bahia Candela, which entered service on June 4.
A New Vessel, A New Product
Repsol chartered the Bahia Candela from shipowner Mureloil. The vessel has a capacity of 7,500 m³ and is equipped with a diesel-electric propulsion system capable of handling multiple bunker grades, Ship & Bunker reports.
During its first commercial voyage, the vessel loaded co-processed fuel at Repsol’s Petronor refinery in Bilbao before delivering it to customers at Algeciras — marking the company’s formal entry into low-carbon marine fuel supply at the port.
What Is Co-Processed Marine Fuel?
Co-processed fuels are produced differently from conventional biofuels. Rather than being manufactured in a dedicated biorefinery, they are created by integrating renewable feedstocks — such as used cooking oil or hydrotreated vegetable oil (HVO) — into existing fossil fuel refinery processes.
The result is a fully compatible, lower-emission fuel that can be used as a drop-in replacement on existing vessels without requiring any technical modifications. This compatibility with current infrastructure is a significant characteristic that distinguishes co-processed fuels from some other alternative fuel options.
Does This Matter to You?
The commercial launch of co-processed marine fuel supply at Algeciras represents a tangible expansion of lower-emission bunker options at one of Europe’s busiest bunkering hubs. For those involved in vessel fueling decisions, supply chain planning, or compliance strategies under evolving emissions regulations, the availability of drop-in co-processed fuels at a major port like Algeciras may be worth monitoring.
The fact that these fuels require no vessel modifications lowers the barrier to adoption compared to more technically demanding alternative fuels. As Ship & Bunker notes, Repsol describes this as the company’s entry into low-carbon marine fuel supply at Algeciras — signaling a longer-term strategic direction rather than a one-off delivery.
The direct implications for individual operators will depend on their specific compliance requirements, trading routes, and charter arrangements.
Gulf Bunkering does not provide operational or security guidance. This article is for informational purposes only. Operators should consult flag state authorities, P&I clubs, and relevant advisories for decisions relating to transit planning.
Sources: Ship & Bunker
