Now, as the maritime industry seeks sustainable alternatives to conventional fossil fuels, ammonia is emerging as a promising solution for decarbonizing shipping.
With zero carbon emissions at the point of use and the ability to be produced from renewable sources, ammonia presents a viable pathway toward reducing the sector’s environmental footprint. Collaboration among different maritime stakeholders is essential to ensure the safe integration of ammonia as a marine fuel.
Key considerations for maritime stakeholders
In a recent report, LR and MMMCZCS highlight the following:
- Seafarers must acquire knowledge of ammonia’s properties, including its toxicity and material incompatibility.
- Regulators must update regulations, including the IGF Code, the IMO STCW Convention and Code, as well as seafarer certification standards.
- Shipowners and operators should conduct a gap analysis to identify necessary changes and develop programs to address them.
- Training providers should establish a transition pathway for seafarers and shore-based staff.
- Seafarers must be informed about the evolving competency and training requirements associated with ammonia fuel.
10 key priorities for ammonia as a fuel
RINA explains that achieving a low-carbon ammonia market demands an integrated strategy
#1 Drive investment through a comprehensive policy portfolio
Low-carbon ammonia production requires significant capital and operational investment
#2 Decarbonize existing ammonia production
Retrofitting existing ammonia plants offers the quickest path to emission reductions
#3 Reduce costs and scale up
Green ammonia needs scaled-up electrolyzers, and more renewable energy investment
#4 Support innovation through R&D&I
Key focus areas include improving the cost, efficiency, and durability of electrolyzers
#5 Build ammonia transport and storage infrastructure
The challenge lies in coordinating ammonia, hydrogen, and CO₂ systems
#6 Expand ammonia shipping and terminal infrastructure
Investment in specialized vessels and terminal facilities becomes essential
#7 Ensure a holistic approach
Synchronizing production capacity, demand, and the infrastructure connecting them is vital
#8 Facilitate a global market for low-carbon ammonia
Collaborative efforts can accelerate investments in essential infrastructure
#9 Establish standards and a global certification framework
Standards should align with international frameworks, such as ISO
#10 Enhance public awareness and engagement
Address ammonia’s safety issues through transparent regulatory frameworks
