Ammonia: Charting a New Course in Maritime Shipping

ShipUniverse: News Summary
Issue	Key Developments	Impact	Future Outlook
Ammonia as a Marine Fuel	- Gaining traction as a zero-carbon shipping fuel. - Companies investing in ammonia-powered vessels and bunkering infrastructure.	- Could help the industry meet IMO 2050 emission targets. - Requires new safety measures due to ammonia's toxicity.	- Adoption depends on infrastructure expansion and cost reduction. - More pilot projects expected in the coming years.
NYK & Seatrium Bunker Tanker	- Received Approval in Principle for an ammonia bunker vessel. - Designed to supply ammonia fuel to ships in Singapore.	- Supports the development of ammonia refueling infrastructure. - First step toward integrating ammonia bunkering into major ports.	- Expected to accelerate ammonia adoption in Southeast Asia. - Other ports may follow Singapore’s lead in ammonia bunkering.
Amogy’s Ammonia-Powered Tugboat	- First ammonia-powered tugboat successfully tested. - Converted from a diesel-powered vessel.	- Demonstrates that ammonia can be used in retrofitted vessels. - Highlights potential for repurposing existing ships instead of building new ones.	- May pave the way for ammonia retrofits across the industry. - Further trials needed to prove long-term reliability.
Regulatory & Safety Challenges	- IMO has issued interim safety guidelines for ammonia fuel. - Focus on crew training and onboard safety measures.	- Ammonia is toxic and requires special handling procedures. - Safety concerns could slow down widespread adoption.	- Further regulations expected before ammonia use becomes mainstream. - Industry working on improving safety protocols.
Investment in Infrastructure	- Ports in Singapore, Rotterdam, and Japan preparing for ammonia bunkering. - Fuel supply systems under development by Alfa Laval and WinGD.	- Expanding infrastructure will determine ammonia’s viability. - Early adopters positioning themselves as key ammonia hubs.	- More ports likely to invest in ammonia refueling in the coming years. - Shipping companies expected to increase ammonia-powered vessel orders.

As the global maritime industry accelerates efforts to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, ammonia has emerged as one of the most promising alternative fuels. Its carbon-free composition positions it as a leading contender to help shipping companies comply with the International Maritime Organization’s 2050 decarbonization targets. While ammonia's potential as a marine fuel has long been discussed, recent advancements suggest that it may become a practical reality sooner than expected.

From new ammonia-powered vessel designs to expanding bunkering infrastructure and regulatory progress, the industry is actively working to integrate ammonia into commercial shipping. However, challenges remain, including concerns over safety, cost, and the energy density of ammonia compared to conventional fuels.

Major Developments in Ammonia-Powered Vessels

Several companies have made significant strides in ammonia-fueled vessel designs, marking important milestones in the transition to sustainable shipping.

NYK and Seatrium’s ammonia bunker tanker
NYK and Seatrium, through its subsidiary LMG Marin, recently received Approval in Principle from ClassNK for their ammonia bunker tanker design. This vessel is expected to operate in Singapore, where ammonia bunkering is being actively developed. By providing a dedicated refueling solution for ammonia-powered ships, this project is helping to build the supply infrastructure necessary for ammonia adoption.
Amogy’s ammonia-powered tugboat
Amogy, a New York-based technology startup, has successfully retrofitted a 67-year-old diesel tugboat to run on ammonia fuel. The vessel recently completed a test voyage along the Hudson River, demonstrating the feasibility of ammonia propulsion for smaller workboats. This project highlights the potential for converting existing vessels rather than requiring entirely new ship designs.
Alfa Laval’s ammonia fuel supply systems
Alfa Laval has announced that its first ammonia fuel supply systems will be available by late 2025. In partnership with engine designer WinGD, the company is working on ammonia-compatible fuel systems to help facilitate the transition to zero-emission shipping.

Regulatory and Safety Considerations

The use of ammonia as a marine fuel presents several safety challenges due to its toxicity and handling requirements. To address these concerns, the IMO’s Maritime Safety Committee has approved interim guidelines for ammonia fuel use. These guidelines provide a framework for training crews, managing ammonia leaks, and designing ships with enhanced safety features.

Shipowners and regulators are also considering new safety measures, such as enclosed fuel systems, double-walled tanks, and advanced ventilation systems to minimize risks. While ammonia’s handling requirements are stricter than those of conventional fuels, the industry is actively developing solutions to make its use both safe and practical.

Expanding Ammonia Infrastructure

A key factor in ammonia’s adoption is the development of bunkering infrastructure. Several major ports are preparing for ammonia fueling, ensuring that ships powered by this fuel will have reliable refueling options.

Singapore is positioning itself as a leader in ammonia bunkering, with the Maritime and Port Authority working to develop supply networks and refueling stations.
Rotterdam has launched ammonia-related projects to support European shipping routes, including partnerships with energy companies to secure a stable supply.
Japan and South Korea are actively investing in ammonia as part of their long-term energy strategies, with ports preparing to support large-scale ammonia refueling.

As more ports develop ammonia infrastructure, shipping companies will have greater confidence in transitioning to this alternative fuel.

Challenges and Considerations

Despite ammonia’s advantages, widespread adoption still faces hurdles.

Energy density
Ammonia has a lower energy density than traditional marine fuels, meaning ships must either carry larger fuel storage tanks or refuel more frequently. This could affect vessel design and operational efficiency.
Production costs
Green ammonia, produced using renewable energy, is currently more expensive than fossil fuel alternatives. Companies are exploring ways to scale production and reduce costs, such as increasing the use of renewable energy and expanding ammonia supply chains.
Comparisons with other alternative fuels
Ammonia is not the only zero-carbon fuel being considered. Methanol and hydrogen are also gaining attention, with some companies investing in multiple fuel options to keep their pathways open. Each alternative has trade-offs in terms of cost, availability, and ease of integration into existing fuel supply networks.

Momentum for ammonia as a marine fuel continues to build. Regulatory frameworks are being established, investment in ammonia-powered vessels is growing, and infrastructure is expanding to support long-term adoption. While challenges remain, the shipping industry’s commitment to decarbonization suggests that ammonia will play a central role in the transition to cleaner fuels.

Over the next decade, technological advancements, cost reductions, and improved safety measures are expected to accelerate ammonia adoption. With more pilot projects and regulatory approvals underway, the industry is laying the groundwork for ammonia to become a commercially viable solution for sustainable maritime transport.