Pherousa: trialing ammonia-propelled Ultramaxes for cross-Pacific copper ore transport

By Julian Atchison on September 30, 2025

Ammonia cracking-based propulsion system progresses to pilot phase

Pherousa and Deltamarin's 63,000 dwt Ultramax design.

Click to learn more. Pherousa and a series of project partners will deploy and validate its ammonia-propelled Ultramax design over a two-year project, with the first vessel to be launched in 2030. Source: Pherousa Green Technologies.

Pherousa Green Technologies has announced that its ammonia cracking-based maritime propulsion system will now enter a pilot testing and deployment program, following AiP for the technology system awarded by ABS and DNV. Pherousa’s system is based on the patented ammonia cracking HIWAR® concept developed by Greek technology developer Metacon, which converts ammonia into high-quality hydrogen fuel for PEM fuel cells or internal combustion engines, for both main and auxiliary power. Any of these alternative systems can be fitted on a vessel to yield a replacement engine power up to 15-20 MW.

For the Marine Pilot Programme, Pherousa will look to deploy and demonstrate its system on a series of 63,000 dwt Ultramax dry bulk carriers, designed by Deltamarin in Finland. “Marinizing and scaling the…technology to a 250+ kW Pilot size” is a necessary step before deployment. The design is based on an existing model, modified for hydrogen propulsion by incorporating Pherousa’s ammonia cracking technology. OSM Thome will manage the crew and technical operations of the first six vessels, which will serve the cross-Pacific copper trade.

The Marine Pilot Programme is being supported by a number of relevant key players, including:

According to the announcement, the initial 10kW prototype is now being scaled to a modular marine pilot system with a power output of 250+ kW. Construction of the first pilot is scheduled for March/April 2026, and onboard vessel testing is expected in early 2027. The entire pilot system installation is estimated to occupy one 40 foot container, supplemented by an additional tank for ammonia storage. After validation in the pilot, the technology will be scaled to the MW size in 2028-29, and the first Ultramax launched in 2030.

I am pleased to highlight the significant progress and achievements of our technology, steering into the Marine Pilot Programme, which is the last step towards full commercialization of our efficient ammonia-to-hydrogen cracking technology. The continued operation of the Ultramax project further underscores our commitment to innovation and excellence in the maritime industry, by shaping the future of shipping. We are deeply grateful for the support and dedication from our collaborators and look forward to this next and exciting phase of Pherousa.

Hans Bredrup, Chairman of Pherousa AS, in his organisation’s official press release, 23 Sept 2025