Industry parties collaborate on ammonia burning engine

The three memorandums of understanding (MoUs) signed demonstrate the organisations’ ‘act-now’ approach to decarbonisation and environmental preservation. The engines developed are expected to create a pathway for wide-scale adoption across the maritime industry.

Joining EPS and MAN ES in signing one of the MoUs are MPA and the American Bureau of Shipping (ABS), and in the other two MoUs, Lloyd’s Register, Qingdao Beihai Shipyard (where the EPS-managed Newcastlemaxes will be built) and Jiangnan Shipyard (where the EPS-managed VLACs will be built) all of which will be fitted with the MAN ES ammonia engines.

EPS CEO Cyril Ducau highlighted that dual-fuel engines like LNG, LPG, and ethane will still play a significant role in various segments. However, with this engine, it will mean that this will be the first time that ocean going vessels will take a significant step towards zero carbon emissions.

MAN ES is pleased to be developing these state-of-the-art engines for EPS. This is a significant milestone for MAN ES, EPS, and the maritime industry.

… said Bjarne Foldager MAN ES Senior Vice President and head of two-stroke

The announcement comes a year after EPS, HHI, and ABS signed a similar MoU for the construction of a series of mid or large gas carriers. EPS has also ordered a series of Newcastlemaxes and Very Large Gas Carriers with CSSC which will be fitted with the MAN ES ammonia engines.

 We look forward to working closely with EPS and partners to study the ammonia engine design and operations to support the development of new safety guidelines and standards, port preparations, training and emergency response plans.

… stated Maritime and Port Authority of Singapore (MPA) Chief Executive, Teo Eng Dih

The vessels are expected to be delivered from 2026 onwards.