In a landmark step for sustainable shipping, a Chinese seafaring vessel has completed the world's first pure ammonia fuel bunkering operation, marking a breakthrough in decarbonizing the maritime industry. The milestone, achieved on Friday at a terminal operated by China COSCO Shipping Corp., Ltd. in Dalian City, highlights China's accelerating push toward green energy innovation.
The newly retrofitted vessel, designed for port operations, features two full-pressure ammonia fuel tanks flanking its main deck. These tanks provide stable power to the main engine while achieving a maximum ammonia energy replacement ratio of 91%—drastically cutting fossil fuel dependence. Analysts say this technology could redefine global shipping logistics, particularly for short-haul routes.
The ammonia used in the trial originates from Inner Mongolia's Chifeng City, home to the world's largest green hydrogen and ammonia project. With an annual capacity of 1.52 million tonnes, the facility leverages AI-driven power systems to ensure 100% renewable energy integration. Ammonia's carbon-free combustion—producing only water and nitrogen—positions it as a frontrunner in clean maritime fuels.
"This isn't just about one ship," said a Dalian-based maritime engineer involved in the project. "It's a proof of concept for scaling ammonia infrastructure across ports and trade routes." The development aligns with global efforts to reduce the shipping sector's 3% share of annual CO2 emissions, as outlined in the International Maritime Organization's 2023 strategy.
For investors, the project signals growing opportunities in China's $1.2 trillion green tech sector, particularly in hydrogen-ammonia supply chains. Meanwhile, environmental researchers highlight the need for continued innovation in ammonia production methods to minimize nitrogen oxide byproducts.
