Japan Engine Corporation (J-ENG) has achieved milestones in the development of an ammonia-fueled engine under NEDO’s “Green Innovation Fund Project/Next-generation Ship Development.”
Following the first ammonia co-firing tests on a large low-speed two-stroke engine in May 2023, the planned testing phase was completed by September 2023. These tests demonstrated stable operation at high ammonia co-firing rates while effectively suppressing nitrous oxide (N2O) emissions, a greenhouse gas with high global warming potential.
According to J-ENG, this breakthrough establishes a viable technology for reducing maritime greenhouse gas emissions. The trials also validated the safety and functionality of peripheral equipment, including the ammonia fuel supply system and the transition process between heavy oil and ammonia.
Building on this success, the first full-scale ammonia-fueled engine, designed for ship installation, is being manufactured, with trial operations scheduled from April to September 2025. Preparations, including the installation and approval of ammonia supply equipment, are progressing smoothly.
In parallel, J-ENG is developing additional ammonia-fueled engines to cater to diverse ship requirements, including a larger model with a 60 cm cylinder bore.
