The Belgium-based CMB.TECH NV has inked a deal with the technology, energy and metals group Fortescue to charter a new ammonia-powered vessel. This 210,000-dwt ammonia-powered newcastlemax will feature a dual fuel engine and is expected to be delivered by the end of 2026.
Fortescue and Bocimar, part of CMB.TECH, have signed an agreement for an ammonia-powered newcastlemax featuring a dual fuel engine. The 210,000-dwt vessel is part of CMB.TECH’s series of large dry bulk carriers currently on order at Qingdao Beihai Shipyard and is expected to be delivered to Fortescue by the end of next year.
According to CMB.TECH NV, “it will play a vital role taking iron ore from the Pilbara to customers in China and around the world.”
The dual-fuel ammonia-powered vessel Fortescue Green Pioneer has been in London since early March, the company said, and it will soon “embark on a tour of global ports to bring attention to the need for a hastened transition to zero emissions fuels.”
Fortescue Metals CEO Dino Otranto has called on shipping regulators to demonstrate “character and leadership” in decarbonising the industry.
“Our landmark agreement with Bocimar sends a clear signal to the market – now is the time for shipowners to invest in green ammonia-powered ships. The days of ships operating on dirty bunker fuel, which is responsible for 3 per cent of global carbon emissions, are numbered,” Otranto said.
Otranto added: “We continue to implore shipping regulators to show the character and leadership that is necessary to ensure this happens sooner rather than later. Our agreement with Bocimar is just the beginning.”
From his side, Alexander Saverys, CEO of CMB.TECH noted that both companies have been close partners for more than 20 years. “Based on our common belief that green ammonia is the fuel of the future, we were able to conclude this important agreement on the road to zero emission shipping,” Saverys highlighted.
CMB.TECH, listed on Euronext Brussels and the NYSE, owns and operates more than 150 seagoing vessels: crude oil tankers, dry bulk vessels, container ships, chemical tankers, offshore wind vessels and workboats.
