Ammonia will power an ocean-going ship for the first time. Have we got a breakthrough?
Wärtsilä, a company based in Finland, is set to deliver the world’s inaugural four-stroke engine powered by ammonia. The recipient of this groundbreaking technology is a Norwegian startup specializing in manufacturing ships that operate solely on ammonia fuel, ensuring zero emissions.
For decades, ammonia has been a key ingredient in the global production of artificial fertilizers, dominating the industry. In countries like Poland, companies like Grupa Azoty heavily rely on it. However, with increasing pressure from EU regulations to use “green” ammonia, European producers face a significant challenge, leading Grupa Azoty to consider importing this raw material from overseas.
In recent years, there has been a notable shift in focus among scientists worldwide towards creating fuel based on ammonia. The first pilot projects involving passenger cars powered by ammonia-based fuel have emerged, with Toyota’s latest prototype being the most renowned. However, despite these advancements, powering ships with ammonia remains an unachieved feat thus far.
A Finnish invention
Wärtsilä recently inked a letter of intent to provide up to twenty-five four-stroke W25 engines to Norwegian company Viridis Bulk Carriers. These engines, boasting a power of 2 MW and capable of running on ammonia, feature cylinders with a diameter of 25 cm. The anticipated emission reductions achieved by employing Wärtsilä engines with ammonia as fuel are estimated to reach up to 70%.
Viridis Bulk Carriers, a startup established by Navigare Logistics, Amon Maritime, and Mosvolds Rederi since 2020, aims to exclusively construct zero-emission ships for transporting goods across short distances, known as the short sea bulk fleet. All vessels leaving the Viridis Bulk Carriers shipyard are slated to be fueled with green ammonia.
Norwegian carbon footprint
One month prior, Norwegian and German firms unveiled a collaboration aimed at manufacturing ships fueled by green ammonia: Yara Clean Ammonia, NorthSea Container Line, and Yara International. The ship prototype is slated to be completed by 2026 and will serve routes between Norwegian and German ports.
Production of green ammonia will take place in a refurbished ammonia plant, currently in operation in Porsgrunn, Norway. This initiative positions Norway as a frontrunner in integrating ammonia into maritime transportation globally. However, whether these efforts can counterbalance the country’s continued oil production or potential expansion of drilling remains uncertain. Only time will provide the answer.
Source:www.ing.dk
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