Nippon Yusen Kabushiki Kaisha (NYK), a leading shipping company, has successfully completed the world’s first commercial-use ammonia-fueled tugboat, Sakigake, which finished a three-month demonstration voyage operating in Tokyo Bay. The vessel achieved a greenhouse gas (GHG) emission reduction of up to approximately 95% compared to traditional fuels, marking a significant milestone in the global transition to sustainable shipping.
The Sakigake was developed as part of a project funded by Japan’s New Energy and Industrial Technology Development Organization (NEDO), in collaboration with Nippon Yusen Kabushiki Kaisha (NYK), IHI Power Systems Co., Ltd. (IPS), and Nippon Kaiji Kyokai (ClassNK). The vessel, which was completed on August 23, 2024, is the first of its kind to be powered by ammonia, an emerging alternative fuel source for reducing carbon emissions in the shipping industry.
Background: A Leap Toward Sustainable Shipping
The project to develop the ammonia-fueled tugboat began in October 2021 as part of NEDO’s Green Innovation Fund Project, which focuses on the development of vessels equipped with domestically produced ammonia-fueled engines. The Sakigake is the result of nearly three years of work to create a vessel that not only reduces GHG emissions but also promotes the use of ammonia as a viable alternative to conventional marine fuels.
Following its completion, the vessel was engaged in tugboat operations in Tokyo Bay, a critical area for shipping activity in Japan, to conduct the three-month demonstration voyage. The project’s goal was to analyze the vessel’s performance, particularly the ability of ammonia to co-fire with traditional fuels and significantly reduce GHG emissions during regular operations.
Results: A Breakthrough in Ammonia-Fueled Shipping
During the demonstration voyage, NYK and IPS conducted detailed analyses of ammonia co-firing and GHG reduction rates across various engine loads. The results were promising, with the vessel consistently achieving a GHG reduction rate of up to 95% compared to using heavy fuel oil. This trial is the world’s first demonstration of ammonia-powered tugboat operations and has confirmed that ammonia is one of the most promising fuels for achieving the shipping industry’s sustainability goals.
Ammonia Co-firing and GHG Reduction Rates:
- Main Engine Load: 100% | Ammonia Co-firing Rate: 95.2% | GHG Reduction Rate: 94.0%
- Main Engine Load: 75% | Ammonia Co-firing Rate: 94.8% | GHG Reduction Rate: 94.4%
- Main Engine Load: 50% | Ammonia Co-firing Rate: 93.4% | GHG Reduction Rate: 93.0%
- Main Engine Load: 25% | Ammonia Co-firing Rate: 91.1% | GHG Reduction Rate: 90.3%
These results show the vessel’s ability to operate with ammonia at high efficiency across different operational conditions. The reduction in GHG emissions is one of the most significant achievements in the maritime sector, where reducing carbon emissions has been a challenge due to reliance on heavy fuel oils.
Commemorative Ceremony and Industry Recognition
The successful completion of the demonstration voyage was celebrated at a commemorative ceremony held at the port of Yokohama. Attended by prominent figures including former Prime Minister SUGA Yoshihide, Parliamentary Vice-Minister of Economy, Trade and Industry KATO Akiyoshi, Parliamentary Vice-Minister of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism TAKAMI Yasuhiro, and Mayor of Yokohama YAMANAKA Takeharu, the event underscored the importance of this milestone in the global efforts toward sustainable maritime transportation.
Future Plans and Continued Development
Looking ahead, the Sakigake will continue to operate in Tokyo Bay for tugboat operations, with NYK accumulating valuable data on ammonia-fueled vessel performance. This information will be vital for future projects aimed at further reducing emissions in the maritime sector.
In addition, NYK, Japan Engine Corporation, IPS, and Nippon Shipyard Co., Ltd. are collaborating on the development of an ammonia-fueled ammonia gas carrier, which is scheduled for delivery in November 2026. This project will also be supported by NEDO’s Green Innovation Fund and aims to further expand the use of ammonia as a clean fuel in the shipping industry.
Commitment to Net-Zero Emissions
This successful demonstration voyage and the ongoing development of ammonia-powered vessels mark a significant step toward achieving net-zero emissions in the shipping industry. NYK is committed to leading the way in the development of next-generation fueled vessels, including those powered by ammonia. The company’s efforts are aligned with global environmental goals and Japan’s ambitious plans to reduce GHG emissions across industries.
In conclusion, the successful demonstration of the Sakigake ammonia-fueled tugboat is a landmark achievement in the shipping industry’s efforts to reduce its environmental footprint. As ammonia continues to gain traction as a sustainable marine fuel, projects like this will pave the way for a greener, more sustainable future for global maritime operations.
About NEDO
The New Energy and Industrial Technology Development Organization (NEDO) is Japan’s leading public R&D management and funding organization. NEDO aims to accelerate the development and commercialization of cutting-edge technologies that contribute to energy conservation, environmental protection, and the achievement of sustainable growth. The Green Innovation Fund Project is one of NEDO’s key initiatives to support the development of sustainable technologies for a carbon-neutral society.
About IHI Power Systems
IHI Power Systems Co., Ltd. (IPS) is a leading provider of power generation and propulsion systems for the maritime industry. The company specializes in developing advanced technologies that contribute to the reduction of emissions and the promotion of energy efficiency in shipping operations.
About Nippon Kaiji Kyokai (ClassNK)
Nippon Kaiji Kyokai (ClassNK) is a classification society that provides certification services to the maritime industry. ClassNK plays a critical role in ensuring the safety and environmental compliance of ships and offshore structures.
About Nippon Yusen Kabushiki Kaisha (NYK)
NYK is a global logistics company with a long history of providing maritime transportation services. Founded in 1885, the company has consistently led innovations in the logistics and maritime industries. As part of its commitment to sustainability, NYK has integrated ESG strategies into its business model and aims to promote a cleaner, greener future for the maritime sector. The company’s ongoing initiatives to adopt alternative fuels like ammonia reflect its commitment to reducing the environmental impact of global shipping.
Source Nippon Yusen Kabushiki Kaisha (NYK)