The American Bureau of Shipping (ABS) has awarded the first-ever U.S. Approval in Principle (AiP) for an ammonia bunkering articulated tug-barge (AB-ATB) design.
The AiP was awarded to a partnership that includes Fleet Management Limited, Sumitomo Corporation, and TOTE Services. The AB-ATB design was developed by VARD Marine US, Inc., and aims to support ammonia-fueled vessels by facilitating ship-to-ship bunkering operations along the U.S. East Coast.
As informed, the achievement was made in collaboration with the RADIUS consortium, which includes ABS, A.P. Moller – Maersk, Fleet Management Limited, and the Georgia Ports Authority. The RADIUS Consortium is referencing the ‘industry-first’ ammonia bunkering guidance released by ABS in July 2024, and will proceed further with detailed risk assessments with various stakeholders and relevant government agencies in the U.S. as part of the next steps towards commencing ammonia bunkering operation along the U.S. East Coast.
The Parties expect this approval to encourage the maritime industry to further invest in and develop ammonia-powered vessels, with the first operational bunkering vessel expected by 2030.
This is an exciting milestone for our feasibility study and project teammates. Having an approved basic design for the AB-ATB is another step toward maturity for ammonia as a marine fuel. ABS is committed to supporting the maritime industry as it pursues low-carbon, more sustainable operations.
…. said Panos Koutsourakis, ABS Vice President, Global Sustainability, as a representative of the consortium.
The announcement was made during the Gastech 2024 conference in Houston.
