World’s 1st Ammonia-fuelled PSV Vessel Set To Begin Operations In 2026

Wärtsilä Corporation has signed a historic deal with Norwegian shipowner Eidesvik Offshore to convert the offshore platform supply vessel (PSV) ‘Viking Energy’ to operate on ammonia fuel.

The initiative will make Viking Energy the world’s first in-service ammonia-fuelled ship.

The conversion will begin in early 2026, and the vessel is expected to be operational by mid-year.

The initiative is a collaboration with the energy company Equinor, which charters Viking Energy and will contribute funding for the conversion.

Wärtsilä will supply the essential equipment, including the Wärtsilä 25 Ammonia engine, the Wärtsilä ammonia release mitigation system, the AmmoniaPac Fuel Gas Supply System, and a selective catalytic reduction system.

The project also includes a full-service agreement for ongoing maintenance.

Ammonia is emerging as a crucial alternative fuel for the maritime industry, contributing to the IMO’s goal of net zero emissions by 2050.

According to a recent Wärtsilä analysis, the current decarbonization methods can reduce emissions by up to 27%, but sustainable fuels like ammonia are essential to meet the remaining 37%.

Wärtsilä’s President and CEO, Håkan Agnevall, states that the shipping must achieve net zero emissions within the lifetime of a single vessel. Agnevall added that coordinated action is essential to implement a change in the sustainable fuels system.

Gitte Gard Talmo, CEO and President of Eidesvik Offshore, highlighted the company’s long-standing commitment to environmental innovation, citing Viking Energy’s prior world records for adopting innovative green technologies. Talmo stated that collaboration throughout the value chain is essential to succeed in the green transition.

The initiative is part of the broader Apollo project, co-funded by the Horizon Europe framework program. It aims to speed up the transition to a climate-neutral Europe by 2050.

Wärtsilä’s efforts to advance ammonia-fuel technology began in 2023, with the company expecting widespread adoption by the 2030s.

Reference: Warstsila

World’s 1st Ammonia-fuelled PSV Vessel Set To Begin Operations In 2026 appeared first on Marine Insight – The Maritime Industry Guide

Source: Maritime Shipping News