A groundbreaking advancement in maritime fuel technology has been achieved with the Approval in Principle (AiP) from Nippon Kaiji Kyokai (ClassNK) for a ship-to-ship bunkering boom designed for fuel ammonia. This innovative technology, jointly developed by NYK and TB Global Technologies Ltd. (TBG), marks a significant milestone in the safe and efficient supply of ammonia fuel.
The AiP, awarded on July 31, 2024, is the world’s first for this type of bunkering boom technology. TBG, renowned for its expertise in cargo-handling equipment for various liquids including crude oil and LNG, has partnered with NYK to enhance the safety of ammonia bunkering. Ammonia, a promising alternative fuel for maritime decarbonization due to its lack of CO2 emissions when burned, poses significant safety challenges due to its toxicity. The new technology addresses these challenges with TBG’s advanced emergency-release system, which enables instantaneous disconnection between an ammonia-fueled vessel and the ammonia bunkering vessel (ABV) in the event of an emergency.
The AiP process involved NYK providing critical design data for its in-house developed ABV and leveraging its extensive knowledge of ammonia handling from its ammonia-transport operations and the Kaguya, Japan’s first LNG bunkering vessel. The insights gained from Kaguya, operated by Central LNG Marine Fuel Corporation (with NYK as the largest shareholder), have been instrumental in refining the safety and functionality of the bunkering boom.
Ammonia-fueled vessels are gaining traction as next-generation, environmentally friendly alternatives in the maritime industry. NYK is part of a consortium developing an ammonia-fueled medium gas carrier (AFMGC) scheduled for delivery in November 2026. This development is a testament to the growing interest in ammonia as a viable marine fuel.
The new bunkering boom is set to be installed on ammonia-fueled vessels expected to become prominent in the late 2020s. This initiative aligns with NYK’s broader decarbonization goals, which include a 45% reduction in greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions by 2030 and achieving net-zero emissions by 2050, as outlined in the NYK Decarbonization Story. This strategy emphasizes the transition to ammonia fuel and the creation of an ammonia value chain as critical components in reducing maritime GHG emissions.
NYK remains committed to advancing environmental technology and enhancing crew safety through ongoing research and development. The company aims to lead the global maritime industry in sustainable practices and innovation.
About TBG
TB Global Technologies Ltd. (TBG) is a leading manufacturer of cargo-handling equipment in Japan, specializing in technologies for crude oil, LNG, and other liquid cargos. TBG’s innovations in safety and efficiency contribute significantly to the advancement of maritime fuel technologies.
About ClassNK
Established in 1899, ClassNK is a classification society dedicated to safety and environmental protection through third-party certification. ClassNK conducts diverse technical services, including surveys and classifications of ships and marine structures based on its own rules and international conventions on behalf of more than 100 flag states, as well as management system certifications in line with ISO and other industry standards. ClassNK is committed to providing the industry with full support to tackle digitalization and decarbonization challenges through expanding certification services and R&D with industry partners.
About NYK Group
The NYK Group is a global leader in integrated logistics, committed to sustainability and innovation. With a focus on reducing GHG emissions and promoting green technologies, the Group is dedicated to achieving a sustainable future through strategic growth and ESG initiatives.
Source NYK Line