Fuel supply, engine technology and safety frameworks are advancing, supporting the development of ammonia-ready tonnage ahead of wider adoption.

The building blocks for ammonia are falling into place

August brought progress across fuel supply, engine technology and safety standards. While ammonia bunkering remains limited, the infrastructure and technology needed for wider adoption are increasingly taking shape.

This is reflected in EMF’s Green Harmony Fund, where three VLGCs under construction will be chartered to Trafigura upon delivery and feature engines designed with dual-fuel capabilities and potential for future ammonia retrofits. The vessels can therefore operate on conventional fuels today while retaining the option to transition to ammonia as fuel availability, regulation and economics develop.

October’s IMO vote could accelerate adoption

The IMO will vote in October on its proposed Net-Zero Framework, which would introduce a global price on maritime emissions and incentives for lower-emission vessels. Adoption would strengthen the commercial case for ammonia-capable tonnage and provide greater visibility for owners investing in the transition.

Sources: Ammonia Energy Association, Azane Fuel Solutions, International Maritime Organization, Lloyd’s Register, Mærsk Mc-Kinney Møller Center for Zero Carbon Shipping, Manifold Times & Maritime and Port Authority of Singapore