Israel imposes 0.10% fuel sulphur limit in its ports from February, to all Israeli and foreign flagged vessels to which MARPOL Annex VI applies, while at Israeli ports.
Israel’s Port Regulations (prevention of air pollution from ships) 2022 implementing Marpol Annex VI will enter into force on 23 February, 2023.
The new regulations prohibit the use of fuel oil with a sulphur content of more than 0.10%, when vessels are moored alongside or waiting at designated anchorages unless an exhaust gas cleaning system (EGCS) is fitted.
The use of electricity from a shore connection (available at Bay-port) is also an acceptable alternative compliance method. From 23 February onwards, vessels not fitted with an EGCS carrying non-compliant fuel on board will be subject to port state control actions.
The new regulations, issued by the State of Israel Ministry of Transport, also provide guidance on reporting non-availability of compliant fuel. This notification, commonly referred to as a Fuel Oil Non-Availability Report (FONAR), must be submitted as soon as the master becomes aware that compliant fuel cannot be sourced.
Sources: UK P&I Club, Standard Club
