A Japanese joint venture teams up for the development of ammonia-fueled bulk carriers. The joint venture will explore MAN’s ammonia engine for bulker.
Partners Kawasaki Kisen Kaisha (“K” Line), Itochu, Nihon Shipyard Co., Ltd., MAN Energy Solutions (MAN), Mitsui E&S Co., Ltd., and NS United Kaiun Kaisha, Ltd have sealed a memorandum of understanding regarding the joint development of ammonia-fueled bulk carriers.
In accordance with the MOU, 200,000 deadweight ton class bulk carriers to be built by Nihon Shipyard will be equipped with ammonia-fueled engines, being developed by MAN, as a pilot project prior to commercialization.
MAN has the role of the design and development of ammonia fueled engine and verification after delivery of 200,000 deadweight ton class bulk carriers, equipped with ammonia fueled engines.
Nihon Shipyard’ role is the design and construction of 200,000 deadweight ton class bulk carriers equipped with ammonia fueled engines.
“K” Line’s, Itochu and NS United role will be the crew development and ship management for operation of 200,000 deadweight ton class bulk carriers equipped with ammonia fueled engines and the collection of operation data.
Meanwhile, Mitsui E&S role will be the manufacturing ammonia fueled engine of 200,000 deadweight ton class bulk carriers and the design and production of related system.
“The signing of this MOU is an important milestone for the implementation of ammonia-fueled ships, a new challenge being taken on by the maritime industry, and also an important step in the ongoing implementation of the Integrated Project being facilitated by ITOCHU,” reads “K” Line’s statement.
As it is reported by “K” Line, the necessary operational data will be collected after the delivery of the ships for the commercialization of ammonia-fueled engines and ammonia-fueled ships in cooperation with other parties involved.
ITOCHU and its partners will proceed with the development of the ammonia-fueled engines and ships based on the MOU, aiming to begin social implementation once the engines and ships are ready.
It’s worth noting that the development and commercialization of ammonia dual fueled engines using ammonia as their primary fuel is essential for widespread use of ammonia-fueled ships.
