TOKYO—Mitsui O.S.K. Lines, Ltd. (MOL) has announced a major step in ammonia-fueled shipping, as a large ammonia-powered ammonia carrier, jointly developed with Namura Shipbuilding Co., Ltd. and Mitsubishi Shipbuilding Co., Ltd., has received Approval in Principle (AiP) from Nippon Kaiji Kyokai (ClassNK).
The vessel, under development since 2021, is designed to address the increasing demand for ammonia as a zero-carbon fuel and hydrogen carrier, particularly for power plant transitions. Its cargo tanks surpass the capacity of traditional Very Large Gas Carriers (VLGCs) and Very Large Ammonia Carriers (VLACs), ensuring higher transport efficiency and reduced emissions. What makes this carrier particularly significant is its ability to meet entry restrictions at Japan’s major power plants while maintaining compatibility with existing VLGC infrastructure at ammonia supply terminals.
Enhanced Safety Measures and Design Advancements
A crucial part of this project involved a Hazard Identification Study (HAZID), where safety measures for ammonia’s toxicity were extensively evaluated. ClassNK conducted a thorough review of the vessel’s basic plans, assessing the feasibility of its design and ensuring robust safety protocols. The completion of this AiP allows the project to progress into the detailed design phase, reinforcing confidence in the vessel’s operational viability.
MOL and its partners are positioning this development as a pivotal step toward achieving net-zero greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions by 2050. This aligns with MOL’s BLUE ACTION 2035 initiative and MOL Group Environmental Vision 2.2, which focus on supporting a decarbonized and low-carbon society by advancing clean energy infrastructure and alternative fuels.
The collaboration between MOL, Namura, and Mitsubishi Shipbuilding underscores the increasing momentum in sustainable maritime transport. As ammonia gains traction as a viable fuel alternative, such initiatives are expected to play a significant role in reducing emissions across the global shipping industry.
