The two classification societies ABS and Lloyd’s Register (LR) have awarded a new ship design of an ammonia fueled 3500 TEU containers vessel approval in principle (AiP).
A cross-industry taskforce including A. P. Moller-Maersk, MAN Energy Solutions, Deltamarin, Eltronic FuelTech, ABS and LR led by the Mærsk Mc-Kinney Møller Center for Zero Carbon Shipping is behind the new design and the result of the collaborative approach is a milestone in enabling ammonia as an alternative marine fuel.
To unlock the potential of sustainable ammonia as an alternative, low emission marine fuel we must carefully address the safety issues onboard and ensure a safe and healthy working environment for our seafarers and people in ports.
…says Claus W. Graugaard, Chief Technology Officer, Onboard Vessel Solutions at the Mærsk Mc-Kinney Møller Center for Zero Carbon Shipping and continues:
When awarding an AiP the classification societies perform a novel technology evaluation to examine all fundamental aspects of the ship design and general compliance with the associated rules/regulations. An AiP is not a regulatory approval as these are issued by flag state administrations.
Next, the remarks raised on the design will be addressed and the Mærsk Mc-Kinney Møller Center for Zero Carbon Shipping continues to lead this work looking into extending the project to a second phase with partners including a charterer and ship owner.
This project is an important step on the road to the wider adoption of ammonia as a marine fuel by the industry. ABS is committed to utilizing our highly specialized technical knowledge and research capabilities to explore viable, safe solutions for our clients’ decarbonization challenges. ABS is proud to contribute to this project team and to the work of the Mærsk Mc-Kinney Møller Center for Zero Carbon Shipping.
…said John McDonald, ABS President and COO.
Safety remains a critical aspect for the widespread adoption of ammonia as a marine fuel. This AiP demonstrates a clear cross-sector intention to ensure that ambition becomes reality.
..commented Andy McKeran, Chief Commercial Officer of Lloyd’s Register.