EPS to order dual-fuel ammonia gas carrier

The size of the tanker, which will be Singapore-flagged, is yet to be determined, but it could be delivered as early as 2025.

EPS CEO Cyril Ducau says, “We believe that our industry will need to rely on multiple solutions to steadily lower and eventually eliminate emissions. That’s why it is critical for us to constantly invest and develop various alternative marine fuels in order to offer the right solution to the right segment at the right time. The use of ammonia as a marine fuel is the next logical step for EPS and the industry. I am pleased that EPS, MPA, HHI, and ABS have come together on what will certainly be a pivotal moment in our energy transition.”

Ammonia is widely viewed as a promising alternative marine fuel for the maritime industry as it has the potential to reduce greenhouse gas emissions significantly. In June 2021, EPS announced that it has joined a study with Nanyang Technological University, Singapore, to explore the use of ammonia as an alternative marine fuel. The study aims to create a high-level understanding of the ammonia supply chain and bunkering safety. EPS is lending its expertise in the loading, transporting, and discharging of gas, including ammonia, as a cargo.

EPS currently manages one of maritime’s largest independent gas carrier fleets with around 10 mid to large size gas carriers in operation. The company has 12 mid, large, and very large gas carrier newbuilds set to be delivered between 2022 and 2023.