Coalition boosts alternative fuel readiness

The collaboration brings together CIMAC’s role as a non-profit forum for technical exchange on ship propulsion, train drive and power generation, with GCMD’s hands-on experience running pilots and trials.

“As alternative fuels introduce new chemistries and properties, solutions designed for today’s fuels will not automatically apply tomorrow,” said Professor Lynn Loo, chief executive of GCMD.

“This partnership reflects our joint commitment to addressing these challenges through collaboration that is grounded in technical expertise and operational evidence.”

Rick Boom, president of CIMAC, added, “CIMAC collaborates closely with international partners to drive solutions for maritime transformation and accelerate the decarbonisation of shipping.

“Together, CIMAC and GCMD aim to deliver practical, forward-looking solutions that speed the transition to a cleaner, more sustainable future for shipping.”

The partnership comes as demand for alternative fuels continues to rise and the first ocean-going vessels capable of using novel fuels such as ammonia are expected to enter service later this year.

While these developments create new opportunities for decarbonisation, they also introduce complex challenges related to hardware requirements, testing standards, fuel quality frameworks and safe handling procedures.

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Insights from GCMD’s pilots and trials will feed directly into CIMAC’s technical working groups, helping inform the development of new standards and guidance on engine performance, fuel quality considerations and deployment readiness.

In parallel, GCMD will draw on CIMAC’s technical expertise to ensure its trials remain aligned with evolving engine technologies, fuel specifications and industry practices.