Ammonia emerges as a promising green maritime fuel, despite challenges in supply, emissions, and safety
Ammonia, a compound widely recognised for its potential as a green maritime fuel, is emerging at the forefront of the shipping industry’s quest for sustainable solutions.
Ammonia’s appeal lies in its potential to drastically reduce greenhouse gas emissions. Unlike traditional marine fuels, ammonia contains no carbon, making it a compelling candidate in the fight against climate change.
In a gathering of industry experts* Skarv Shipping CEO and chief technical officer, Grieg Edge Jan Øivind Svardal, stressed the industry’s commitment to sustainability and innovation, describing ammonia as a “clear candidate” among green shipping fuels. However, Mr Svardal also underscored the logistical challenges, asking: “If we buy the technology, buy the ship, buy the equipment we need ... will we be able to buy and find the fuel in the correct ports?”
The supply and availability of ammonia remain significant hurdles. The development of a robust infrastructure to support its widespread use is crucial. Taking part in the same discussion was MAN Energy Solutions promotion manager, Ernst Grauert Wilche, who noted the growing interest among fuel producers and pointed out that MAN ES has invested considerable R&D hours into developing ammonia engines. “We believe ammonia will be the number one fuel needed in the market with about 35% of all fuels,” he said, indicating the company’s plan to deliver its first ammonia-burning engines by the end of 2024.
“Will we be able to buy and find the fuel in the correct ports?”
Safety concerns also loom large due to ammonia’s toxicity, necessitating rigorous handling procedures and equipment. Exmar executive director of shipping, Jens Ismar, highlighted the importance of expertise in managing ammonia to ensure safety for both crew and the environment. “We have done a proper job ... working with our partners on this, and we are confident this will work in a safe way, which is paramount,” he stated, reflecting the industry’s cautious optimism.
Technological advancements and successful trials are paving the way for ammonia’s adoption. Engine designers and licensers MAN ES and WinGD have made significant strides in developing ammonia engines for various ship types, including Aframax tankers and bulk carriers. The world’s first ammonia dual-fuel Aframax tankers, equipped with WinGD’s six-cylinder X62DF-A engines, are set to be delivered soon, marking a significant milestone.
Successful ammonia trials further bolster confidence in its feasibility as a marine fuel. Fortescue Green Pioneer, a platform supply vessel converted to run on ammonia and diesel, conducted the world’s first ammonia fuel trial in Singapore. Similarly, Navigator Gas’s successful ammonia ship-to-ship transfer trial off South Africa showcased the operational reliability and safety of ammonia bunkering.
Market and regulatory support will play critical roles in ammonia’s adoption. Poll results from the Riviera Maritime Media webinar indicated a willingness among stakeholders to pay a premium for decarbonised ammonia, with a significant portion favouring a harmonised global classification system. Regulatory frameworks and incentives are essential to support the development of the necessary infrastructure and technology.
Despite the challenges, the shared enthusiasm for green shipping fuels suggests that ammonia could significantly impact the maritime sector and has the potential to become a cornerstone of sustainable maritime practices, helping the industry achieve its decarbonisation goals by 2030 and beyond. As Mr Svardal aptly put it: “The technical, logistical, and regulatory hurdles are clear, but so is the collective optimism for green shipping.”
* Riviera Maritime Media webinar Pathway to 2030 and Beyond: Ammonia held 7 May 2024
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