DNV certifies dual-fuel ammonia OSV

This marks the culmination of a project beginning in 2021, when DNV was engaged by Fortescue to work on the feasibility study and ‘Fuel ready (Ammonia)’ notation for the Green Pioneer’s conversion.

“When Fortescue embarked on this cutting-edge project, it was vital that we worked with organisations like DNV that shared our vision for pioneering solutions to drive decarbonisation in the industry,” said Dino Otranto, Fortescue Metals chief executive.

DNV’s Technology Qualification process provided the framework for the qualification and assurance of the engine modifications, where industry rules were yet to be developed.

Additionally, DNV’s Gas Fuelled Ammonia notation, an industry first, set out the requirements for the ship’s fuel system, fuel bunkering connection and piping through to the fuel consumers.

“DNV has brought a high level of competence, focus, and agility to this project,” continued Otranto. “Their solution-focused and ‘can-do’ attitude without compromising their core roles of safety and quality was immense.”

With no IMO regulations covering the specific use of ammonia, DNV and Fortescue turned to the SOLAS provision for Alternative Design Arrangements (ADA) with the backing of the Maritime and Port Authority of Singapore, particularly around fire and evacuation risks.

Fortescue’s Green Pioneer completed the world’s first ammonia bunkering trial safely in the Port of Singapore in March 2024, following which the vessel received flag approval from the Singapore Registry of Ships and the ‘Gas Fuelled Ammonia’ notation from DNV.