On July 17, NYK supplied fuel ammonia to an NYK-owned ammonia-fueled tugboat (A-Tug), which is set to become the world’s first commercial ammonia-fueled vessel upon completion at the end of August. The Ammonia bunkering took place at the port of Yokohama using the truck-to-ship method, marking the first instance of fueling an A-Tug using this method, according to NYK’s research as of July 2024.
This fuel ammonia replenishment occurred at the Honmoku Wharf of the port of Yokohama under a fuel-supply agreement that NYK concluded with JERA Co., Inc. (JERA) in late May of this year, with the cooperation of the city of Yokohama’s Port and Harbor Bureau.
The fuel ammonia replenished was ECOANN, produced by Resonac Corporation (Resonac) at the company’s Kawasaki plant, partially using recycled plastics as one of the fuel’s raw materials. ECOANN is among the most environmentally friendly types of fuel ammonia and will be used for the sea trials of the A-Tug, which is undergoing modification at the NYK Group’s Keihin Dock Co. Ltd. After the vessel’s delivery, the charterer, Shin Nippon Kaiyosha, will receive fuel ammonia supplied by JERA.
Ammonia is gaining attention as a next-generation marine fuel that contributes to the fight against global warming because it emits no carbon dioxide (CO2) when combusted. However, due to its toxicity, adequate safety measures must be taken during replenishment. Prior to this fueling, NYK held numerous discussions with JERA, Resonac, and other related parties to establish safe operational methods for fueling and a secure transportation and acceptance system to the port area. As a result, the world’s first fueling operation using ammonia was completed safely and smoothly.
Drawing on the experience gained from this successful fuel-ammonia operation, NYK aims to reduce environmental impact by promoting the use of next-generation fuels as a pioneer in ammonia fuel within the shipping industry.
Building on the success of this pioneering ammonia-fueled bunkering, NYK reaffirms its commitment to environmental stewardship and sustainability in maritime operations. By advancing the adoption of next-generation fuels like ammonia, NYK aims to significantly reduce the shipping industry’s environmental footprint.
This initiative is part of “Sail GREEN,” a brand that emphasizes NYK’s efforts to reduce GHG emissions through the transport of goods and contribute to the eco-friendly supply chains of customers, regardless of the mode of transport (e.g., by sea or land, through terminals, etc.).
About NYK Line
Established in 1885 in Japan, NYK Line, formally known as Nippon Yusen Kabushiki Kaisha, has emerged as a global leader in the maritime industry over its 135-year history. Operating a diverse fleet, including container ships, bulk carriers, and tankers, NYK serves over 800 locations worldwide, offering a comprehensive suite of shipping services.
NYK Line has earned recognition for its commitment to innovation, sustainability, and safety, navigating the complexities of global logistics with diligence and foresight. This ongoing dedication underscores NYK’s pivotal role in shaping the future of ocean transport and reaffirms its status as a cornerstone of the maritime landscape.
This milestone underscores NYK’s leadership in driving innovation and sustainability within the maritime sector, setting a precedent for future advancements in alternative fuel technologies.
Source NYK Line