Consortium aims for ammonia bunkering on US east coast by 2030

First US ammonia bunker barge

Click to learn more. The articulated tug-barge design, which will commence ammonia bunkering operations by 2030 on the US east coast. Source: Sumitomo Corporation.

The American Bureau of Shipping has awarded AiP to a new ammonia bunkering articulated tug-barge design. Designed and engineered by VARD, the bunker barge has been in development by the RADIUS consortium (A.P. Moller – Maersk, Fleet Management Limited, Georgia Ports Authority, the Maersk Mc-Kinney Moller Center for Zero Carbon Shipping, Sumitomo Corporation, and TOTE Services) since March 2023. The consortium has also been conducting feasibility studies for ammonia bunkering along the east coast of the USA, and particularly the Port of Savannah, Georgia. The consortium aims for the bunker barge to begin commercial operations by 2030 on the US east coast.

This is an exciting milestone for our feasibility study and project teammates. Having an approved basic design for the AB-ATB is another step toward maturity for ammonia as a marine fuel. ABS is committed to supporting the maritime industry as it pursues low-carbon, more sustainable operations. We have extensive insight into the development and application of ammonia as a marine fuel, and we are proud to share our learnings with this team.

Panos Koutsourakis, ABS Vice President, Global Sustainability in Sumitomo Corporation’s official press release, 19 Sept 2024

The bunker barge design will be compatible with several ammonia-powered vessels under development, including the Aurora Class car carrier recently delivered to Höegh Autoliners, as well as a 15,000 TEU container vessel designed by the MMMCZCS. The Aurora Class car carrier will bunker in Jacksonville, Florida and Brunswick, Georgia, while the container vessel is intended to bunker in Savannah.

Click to enlarge. Partner roles in the Radius consortium. Source: Sumitomo Corporation.