Japan Engine Corporation (J-ENG) announced that it has completed test operations on its low-speed, 2-stroke engine, with installation and subsequent trial operations due to begin in April 2025. Installation will be onboard one of the first ammonia-fueled vessels to hit the water: the NYK-led midsized gas carrier project.
More than 50 leaders across the shipping value chain joined a Call to Action to accelerate the adoption of zero-emission fuels. Amongst the signatories of the Call to Action was Fortescue, which now has partnerships with Höegh Autoliners and COSCO Shipping to accelerate the deployment of ammonia-powered vessels.
During the recent 2024 Ammonia Energy Conference, we explored all the latest developments in ammonia-powered maritime propulsion. Engine makers reported strong progress ahead of deployment in 2026, the same year that large-scale vessels will hit the water. The panel explored early operations for the ammonia-powered A-Tug in Japan, as well as ancillary technology systems required for maritime ammonia engines, catalyst after-treatment systems for emission mitigation, and the potential for fuel additives to boost ammonia engine performance.
In our October episode of Project Features, Hyphen Hydrogen Energy outlined its multi-phase, mega-scale renewable ammonia project set to be the first step in Namibia’s green industrialization pathway. Learn about current timelines and future expansion scope for the 2 million tons per year project, and how the physical infrastructure footprint has been carefully minimized to allow for its siting in the Tsau Khaeb national park.
Lloyd’s Register has awarded approval in principle to HD Hyundai Heavy Industries’ ultra large, 15,300 TEU container ship design. Meanwhile, the Chinese Classification Society has awarded AiP for a 3,500 TEU, Panamax ammonia dual fuel container ship.
MEPC 82 featured important progress in the ongoing development of the IMO’s “mid-term measures” to cut GHG emissions. States remain divided over the precise architecture of the financial mechanism, and the distribution of revenues received significant attention - particularly from states concerned about unjust or inequitable consequences of the energy transition.
Backed by the German Federal Government, MAN Energy Solutions will lead a consortium building on previous work to design and test an ammonia-powered four-stroke engine for marine applications.
