MOL, ITOCHU get ABS AIP for ammonia bunkering vessel

Japanese shipping major Mitsui O.S.K. Lines (MOL) and compatriot general trading firm ITOCHU Corporation have acquired approval in principle (AIP) from classification society ABS for an ammonia bunkering vessel.

Concept

The project is part of a joint development study on the ammonia fuel supply chain in Singapore.

MOL has already acquired experience and knowledge of LNG bunkering vessels. Hence, it will play a leading role in this project together with its partners in the LNG bunkering business in Singapore. Namely, TotalEnergies Marine Fuels and Pavilion Energy Singapore.

MOL and ITOCHU jointly designed the ammonia bunkering vessel in cooperation with Sembcorp Marine Integrated Yard. Moreover, after conducting a risk assessment with the partners in Singapore, applied for and received the AIP.

Specifically, the vessel’s design incorporates extensive safety measures in consideration of ammonia’s toxicity. Marine engine manufacturers around the world are working to develop an ammonia-fueled engine. Delivery of the first ammonia-fueled vessel is expected in the late 2020s at the earliest.

Applications

The ammonia bunkering vessel will supply these next-generation-fueled vessels. Ammonia is in the spotlight as a promising next-generation clean energy source that produces no carbon dioxide (CO2) during combustion.

MOL is working to develop ammonia-fueled vessels and create an ammonia transport business. Therefore, hoping to launch net-zero emission ocean-going vessels during the current decade and achieve net-zero greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions by 2050.

At the same time, the company aims to contribute to the reduction of GHG emissions in society as well. This will be done through initiatives such as the development of an ammonia fuel bunkering vessel that supplies ammonia fuel to other vessels. Thus, establishing an ammonia supply chain.

The company also teamed up with Mitsui E&S Machinery and German engine manufacturer MAN Energy Solutions. Hence, aiming to a purchase contract for the ammonia-fuelled main engine for ships.

The jointly developed large-size ammonia carrier will adopt an ammonia-fuelled main engine to promote the reduction of greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions from MOL-operated vessels.

Similarly, the innovative ammonia-fuelled Newcastlemax bulker design from Anglo-Eastern Technical Services (AETS) received AIP from the American classification society ABS in December 2021.

Source: MOL