In a groundbreaking initiative, Norwegian timber will be shipped with minimal emissions starting in 2027, thanks to Skarv Shipping’s collaboration with Viken AT Market and AT Skog. These companies are setting new standards for sustainability in the forestry industry by utilizing zero-emission vessels powered by ammonia and electricity.
Transforming Timber Transport
Viken AT Market, which ships approximately 1 million tons of Norwegian timber annually, is taking a significant step forward in its commitment to sustainability. Until now, most of this timber has been transported using conventional diesel-powered ships. However, beginning in the summer of 2027, part of Viken AT Market’s timber transport will be transitioned to a brand-new hybrid vessel capable of operating on electricity and ammonia.
Kjersti Denver, CEO of Viken AT Market, expressed pride in securing this zero-emission shipping transport, saying, “With this hybrid vessel, we can provide our customers with more sustainable logistics. It is exceptional in our industry to enter into such a long-term shipping agreement, as we are doing here. However, we are confident in this because we already have substantial experience with Arriva Shipping, which is a flexible and reliable carrier.”
The move towards ammonia-powered ships is supported by AT Skog, which views future increases in CO₂ emission taxes as a key driver for the profitability of ammonia-powered vessels. Hans Erik Røra, Director of Market and Logistics at AT Skog, emphasized the importance of this long-term agreement, noting, “The agreement represents another step toward reducing emissions in our timber transport.”
Innovative Collaboration and Technology
The concept for the new vessel was developed by Bergen-based Skarv Shipping, with backing from Grieg Shipbrokers, who helped facilitate the technology and yard agreement. Arriva Shipping, a long-standing partner of Viken AT Market, will take the vessel on time charter (TC) and manage the commercial ship operations.
Arriva Shipping’s Commercial Director, Bjørn Ødegård, underscored the urgency of transitioning Norway’s coastal fleet to more climate-friendly practices, saying, “We are thrilled to provide transport with nearly zero emissions to Viken AT Market. They also deserve commendation for their forward-thinking approach and willingness to invest in the solutions we can now offer.”
The vessel is designed to operate most efficiently at low speeds, ensuring economically viable operations despite the higher costs of ammonia compared to traditional fuels. Equipped with a 160-cubic ammonia tank, mixed with Marine Gas Oil (MGO) as pilot fuel, the ship will be capable of completing a 14-day round trip from Norway to the continent.
Jan Øivind Svardal, CEO of Skarv Shipping, highlighted the significance of this achievement, stating, “This is our first ship capable of sailing on ammonia from day one, allowing it to operate with minimal greenhouse gas emissions. Simultaneously, the engine is linked to an electric propulsion system that utilizes batteries and has access to shore power.”
Safety and Sustainability at the Core
The design and operation of the vessel take into account the risks associated with using ammonia as a fuel. Skarv Shipping, in close collaboration with class societies, green technology manufacturers, and ship designers LMG Marin, will incorporate advanced safety systems, operational procedures, and crew training to ensure safe and efficient operations.
This vessel, slated for delivery in Q2 2027, is an updated version of Skarv Shipping’s sister ships ordered for commercial operation with Peak CSL Group. The new ship will be specially equipped for timber transport, reflecting the company’s commitment to combining innovation with sustainability in maritime logistics.
Ammonia-Fitted General Cargo Self-Undloader Vessel Specifications:
- Vessel Type: 7.8k DWT Ammonia-fitted General Cargo Self-Unloader
- Length Overall (LOA): 108.2 m
- Beam: 18.1 m
- Depth (Moulded): 9.2 m
- Design Draught: 6.5 m
- DWT at Max Draught: 7,800
- Hold Cubic: 10,200 m³
- Hatch Area (Gross): 1,500 m²
About Viken AT Market
Viken AT Market AS, established in 2015, is a timber export trading company jointly owned by Viken Skog SA and AT Skog SA. Together, these two leading forestry cooperatives in Norway account for approximately 40% of the country’s annual timber turnover. Viken AT Market serves as a reliable trading partner for quality Norwegian timber to customers in Scandinavia and Northern Europe.
About AT Skog
AT Skog SA is a forestry cooperative with over 8,700 members across several regions in Norway. The company, founded in 1907, provides a wide range of services to support active and sustainable forestry management. AT Skog’s core business includes buying and selling timber and offering comprehensive services that cover the entire forestry value chain.
About Arriva Shipping
Arriva Shipping operates a fleet of eight self-unloading dry bulk vessels, ranging from 2,000 to 8,000 tons deadweight, primarily serving Northern Europe. The company offers flexible and reliable maritime transport services to Norwegian and European industrial and business clients, including vessel leasing and time charter operations.
About Skarv Shipping
Skarv Shipping is a joint venture between Peak CSL Group and Grieg Edge, focused on developing sustainable coastal shipping solutions in Northern Europe. The company is constructing four multipurpose ships in China, scheduled for delivery by Q4 2025. Skarv Shipping is committed to offering zero-emission maritime logistics solutions for short-distance sea transport.
With these innovations, Skarv Shipping is setting a new benchmark for sustainability in the maritime industry, demonstrating the potential for zero-emission technology in traditional sectors such as timber transport. This collaboration paves the way for a cleaner, greener future for shipping.
Source Skarv Shipping