In a groundbreaking step toward maritime decarbonization, the offshore supply vessel Viking Energy is set to become the world’s first vessel retrofitted with an ammonia-powered fuel cell. This significant development is part of the ambitious ShipFC project, which has received €10 million in funding from the European Union under the Horizon 2020 program. The initiative aims to showcase the potential of ammonia as a clean fuel for long-range, zero-emission voyages.
Transforming Viking Energy: A Leap Toward Zero-Emission Shipping
The Viking Energy, a vessel with a history of innovation as the first liquefied natural gas (LNG)-powered ocean-going vessel, will soon be equipped with a 2MW ammonia fuel cell. This retrofit will enable the vessel to operate solely on ammonia for up to 3,000 hours annually, marking a significant milestone in the transition to sustainable maritime operations.
The conversion of Viking Energy is a collaborative effort led by a consortium of 14 European companies and institutions, coordinated by NCE Maritime CleanTech. The project seeks to demonstrate the viability of large-scale ammonia fuel cells in providing total electric power for shipboard systems. Prototech, a key player in fuel cell development, will oversee the scaling up of the fuel cell from 100 kilowatts to 2 megawatts, with testing conducted at the Sustainable Energy Norwegian Catapult Centre.
The Role of Ammonia in Maritime Decarbonization
Ammonia is emerging as a promising energy source for the maritime industry due to its abundance and ability to be produced from renewable resources. The Viking Energy project will use green ammonia supplied by Yara, produced through electrolysis, and delivered in containerized form to ensure safe and efficient refueling.
The success of this project could pave the way for ammonia to become a mainstream maritime fuel, offering a zero-emission alternative to traditional fossil fuels. As Hege Økland, CEO of NCE Maritime CleanTech, noted, “Ammonia is an abundant energy source and can easily be made from renewable resources, making it one of the fuels that will likely meet part of shipping’s future energy demand.”
Expanding the Impact: Testing Across Multiple Vessel Types
In addition to the Viking Energy conversion, the ShipFC project will explore the application of ammonia fuel cells in other vessel types, including offshore construction vessels and cargo ships. These studies will assess the technology’s scalability and adaptability, potentially extending the benefits of ammonia fuel cells across the broader shipping industry.
This initiative continues the longstanding collaboration between industry leaders Equinor, Eidesvik, and Wärtsilä, who have been at the forefront of integrating new energy carriers and fuels into maritime operations. The Viking Energy’s retrofit builds on the success of previous projects, such as the LNG-fueled Viking Lady, which was another milestone in the industry’s transition towards cleaner energy sources.
VURDHAAN’s Commitment to Maritime Sustainability
At VURDHAAN, we are deeply invested in supporting the maritime industry’s transition to sustainable fuels and technologies. The Viking Energy project represents a significant step forward in the quest for zero-emission shipping, aligning closely with our mission to guide organizations through complex sustainability challenges.
Our consultancy offers expert guidance in areas such as fuel system innovation, emission reduction strategies, and the adoption of alternative energy sources like ammonia. By providing tailored support and strategic insights, VURDHAAN helps maritime stakeholders navigate the regulatory landscape, optimize their environmental impact, and lead the industry toward a more sustainable future.
The Future of Maritime Innovation
The conversion of Viking Energy to an ammonia-powered vessel is a testament to the maritime industry’s potential for innovation and its commitment to reducing carbon emissions. As the ShipFC project advances, it will set new standards for the use of clean fuels in shipping and contribute to the broader goal of maritime decarbonization.
With continued collaboration and investment in cutting-edge technologies, the maritime industry is poised to make significant strides toward a greener, more sustainable future. VURDHAAN is proud to be part of this journey, supporting the sector’s efforts to embrace innovative solutions and achieve long-term environmental sustainability.
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