Framework to discuss ammonia as marine fuel

Thirty-four companies and organisations have now joined the joint study framework. Recent signatories include Anglo Eastern Ship Management, BHP, Bureau Veritas, CMA CGM, INPEX, JFE Steel, Lloyd’s Register, Maersk, Navios Group, Rio Tinto and Vitol Asia.

Ammonia is a strong candidate as an alternative fuel in the maritime industry, according to Alex Gregg Smith, senior vice president and chief executive, M&O North Asia & China at Bureau Veritas. “We need R&D and collaboration to assess its full potential,” he added. “The work of this coalition will certainly bring real insights and expertise to develop the innovative solutions we need.”

The aim of the joint study framework is to verify and organise common issues regarding the use of ammonia as a maritime fuel, which is a new challenge for maritime stakeholders. ITOCHU also sees this as an opportunity to establish a global ammonia supply chain.

During the rest of the year, the participants, together with ammonia producers, Nutrien and Yara, will discuss common issues including the safety assessment of NH3 fuel ships, safety assessment of NH3 bunkering, NH3 fuel specification and NET CO2 emission at NH3 production.

In the future the framework also seeks to share opinions, views, expertise and experience with other ammonia producers, related organisations, port authorities and regulators in potential bunkering countries.